Performance & Direction: Going Ape! Review
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Going Ape! (1981) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 4.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Comedy.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Going Ape! features a noteworthy lineup led by Tony Danza . Supported by the likes of Jessica Walter and Stacey Nelkin , 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: Going Ape!
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1981, Going Ape! is a Comedy, Crime, Family film directed by Jeremy Joe Kronsberg. The narrative brings laughter through sharp writing and comedic timing, providing amusement while touching on deeper societal themes. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Tony Danza.
Ending Explained: Going Ape!
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Jeremy Joe Kronsberg, Going Ape! attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to comedy resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Tony Danza, 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 comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Going Ape! reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Going Ape! Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Going Ape! incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a comedy, crime, family film directed by Jeremy Joe Kronsberg, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Tony Danza'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: Going Ape! adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Going Ape!?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Comedy films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Going Ape!
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Where to Watch Going Ape! Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoGoing Ape! Parents Guide & Age Rating
1981 AdvisoryWondering about Going Ape! age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Going Ape! is 87 minutes (1h 27m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.3/10, and global performance metrics, Going Ape! is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1981 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Going Ape! worth watching?
Going Ape! is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies. It has a verified rating of 4.3/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Going Ape! parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Going Ape! identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Going Ape!?
The total duration of Going Ape! is 87 minutes, which is approximately 1h 27m 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.
