Fences
Performance & Direction: Fences Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Fences (2016) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Fences features a noteworthy lineup led by Denzel Washington . Supported by the likes of Viola Davis and Stephen McKinley Henderson , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Fences
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2016, Fences is a Drama film directed by Denzel Washington. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Denzel Washington.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. In 1950s Pittsburgh, a frustrated African-American father struggles with the constraints of poverty, racism, and his own inner demons as he tries to raise a family. The screenplay takes time to develop Denzel Washington's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Denzel Washington's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: Fences
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Denzel Washington, Fences concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Denzel Washington, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Fences reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Fences?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Denzel Washington or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Fences
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $24.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $64.4M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Fences Budget
The estimated production budget for Fences is $24.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Fences
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Fences Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV Store
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TV StoreFences Parents Guide & Age Rating
2016 AdvisoryWondering about Fences age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Fences is 139 minutes (2h 19m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.9/10, and global performance metrics, Fences is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2016 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fences worth watching?
Fences is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.9/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Fences parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Fences identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Fences?
The total duration of Fences is 139 minutes, which is approximately 2h 19m long.
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How Fences Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Fences
**Trying to be a good husband and father!** It took nearly a decade for Denzel to direct another film and this time it sailed through the Oscars with four nominations and one won out of it. Yeah, it was Viola Davis, who snatched the most prestigious award for her supporting actress role. Originally the film based on the stage play of the same name. It is a drama takes place in the 50s about a hard working family man, Troy. His past was not very good, which makes him a little arrogant when it comes to raining his boy. Marrying Rose was the best ever thing happened in his life. Though it was not a perfect family. The differences between them is what later bring twist and turns in the tale before heading for the final of the final act. A very simple drama on the fine topic. Most of the film was just a conversation or arguments. And most of the film was little slow moving with the very long overall runtime. If you can manage that, you can enjoy it. If you are a drama genre fan, then you will be more than happy for giving it a try. One of the best drama films of the year, yet not the greatest. It's all finger points at the performances. Those magnificent actors displayed magnificent show. Nearly 35 years old screenplay and 70 years old timeline, still looked the same and powerful. Despite the film's success and poured praises, I don't think it is for everyone. Definitely young generations won't enjoy it. It is mainly for families. _6/10_
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
