Is Hal Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Hal is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Hal Review
Last updated: January 9, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2019, Hal enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on Hal Ashby's obsessive genius led to an unprecedented string of Oscar®-winning classics, including Harold and Maude, Shampoo and Being There. Under the direction of Amy Scott, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Hal Ashby, Jane Fonda, Jon Voight. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, Hal offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, Hal is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 6.5/10, the reception has been generally positive. For fans of Documentary, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of Hal
- Hal Ashby – Self (archive footage)
- Jane Fonda – Self
- Jon Voight – Self
- Lee Grant – Self
- Dustin Hoffman – Self
Top Highlights
Hal AshbySelf (archive footage)
Jane FondaSelf
Jon VoightSelf
Lee GrantSelf
Dustin HoffmanSelf
Rosanna ArquetteSelf
Jeff BridgesSelf
Allison AndersSelf
John C. ReillySelf
Judd ApatowSelf
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.5/10, and global collection metrics, Hal stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2019 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hal movie hit or flop?
Hal has received mixed reviews with a 6.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Hal worth watching?
Hal is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Hal?
Hal is a Documentary movie that Hal Ashby's obsessive genius led to an unprecedented string of Oscar®-winning classics, including Harold and Maude, Shampoo and Being There. But as co...
