Gorilla's Waltz Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Movie Overview: Gorilla's Waltz
| Movie | Gorilla's Waltz |
| Release Year | 1959 |
| Director | Bernard Borderie |
| Genre | Action / Thriller |
| Runtime | 101 minutes (1h 41m) |
| Language | FR |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Gorilla's Waltz (1959) 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 Action.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Gorilla's Waltz are led by Roger Hanin . The supporting cast, including Charles Vanel and Ursula Herwig , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Gorilla's Waltz does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Action films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Gorilla's Waltz has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Action fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Gorilla's Waltz
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1959, Gorilla's Waltz is a Action, Thriller film directed by Bernard Borderie, written by Antoine-Louis Dominique. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Roger Hanin as Géo Paquet, aka 'Le Gorille'.
Ending Explained: Gorilla's Waltz
Gorilla's Waltz Ending Explained: This is the second feature in a series about an intrepid French spy by the nickname of "The Gorilla," but unlike the earlier films, this time around Roger Hanin replaces Lino Ventura in the title role. Directed by Bernard Borderie, this 1959 action film stars Roger Hanin (Géo Paquet, aka 'Le Gorille'), alongside Charles Vanel as Berthomieu aka 'Le Vieux', Ursula Herwig as Luise Keibl, Jess Hahn as Ted the Hook. Rated 4.3/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Gorilla's Waltz?
This is the second feature in a series about an intrepid French spy by the nickname of "The Gorilla," but unlike the earlier films, this time around Roger Hanin replaces Lino Ventura in the title role. A West German scientist has discovered a way to recover missiles shot into space, and the major Western powers are after his secret. Even though the scientist is willing to pass his discovery on to NATO, it is guarded by an elite, undercover West German police force. As foreign agents, including the Russians and Americans, try to get their hands on the secret, "The Gorilla" is forced into the affair by his surly, aging boss -- he has to make sure that the scientist's discovery ends up with NATO.
Bernard Borderie's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Roger Hanin (Géo Paquet, aka 'Le Gorille')'s journey. A West German scientist has discovered a way to recover missiles shot into space, and the major Western powers are after his secret.
How Does Roger Hanin (Géo Paquet, aka 'Le Gorille')'s Story End?
- Roger Hanin: Roger Hanin's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Charles Vanel (Berthomieu aka 'Le Vieux'): Charles Vanel's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Ursula Herwig (Luise Keibl): Ursula Herwig's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Gorilla's Waltz Mean?
The ending of Gorilla's Waltz brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Roger Hanin's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Gorilla's Waltz Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Gorilla's Waltz Based on a True Story?
No, Gorilla's Waltz is a work of fiction. While the action, thriller film directed by Bernard Borderie and starring Roger Hanin may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Gorilla's Waltz?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Where to Watch Gorilla's Waltz Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoGorilla's Waltz Parents Guide & Age Rating
1959 AdvisoryWondering about Gorilla's Waltz age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Gorilla's Waltz (1959) is 101 minutes (1h 41m). Directed by Bernard Borderie, the film runs for 101 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.3/10, and global performance metrics, Gorilla's Waltz is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1959 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gorilla's Waltz worth watching?
Gorilla's Waltz is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 4.3/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Gorilla's Waltz parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Gorilla's Waltz identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Gorilla's Waltz (1959)?
The runtime of Gorilla's Waltz (1959) is 101 minutes (approximately 1h 41m).
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.



