Performance & Direction: Gardenia Review
Last updated: February 22, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Gardenia (1979) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Gardenia features a noteworthy lineup led by Franco Califano . Supported by the likes of Martin Balsam and Robert Webber , 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: Gardenia
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1979, Gardenia is a Crime film directed by Domenico Paolella. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Franco Califano.
Ending Explained: Gardenia
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Domenico Paolella, Gardenia attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Franco Califano, 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Gardenia reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Gardenia Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Gardenia incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime film directed by Domenico Paolella, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Franco Califano's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Gardenia adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Gardenia?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Gardenia
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Gardenia Parents Guide & Age Rating
1979 AdvisoryWondering about Gardenia age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Gardenia is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.8/10, and global performance metrics, Gardenia is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1979 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gardenia worth watching?
Gardenia is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 4.8/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Gardenia parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Gardenia identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Gardenia?
The total duration of Gardenia is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m long.
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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.
