Handgun

  • 1983
  • R
  • 101m
movieMx RATING
5.6/1017
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Handgun Review

Last updated: February 19, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: February 19, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Handgun (1983) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.6/10. 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 Handgun features a noteworthy lineup led by Karen Young . Supported by the likes of Clayton Day and Suzie Humphreys , 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?

In summary, our editorial assessment of Handgun (1983) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.6/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Result: ABOVE AVERAGE
Based on verified audience sentiment and box office trajectory, Handgun stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE.

Story & Plot Summary: Handgun

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1983, Handgun is a Drama, Action, Crime film directed by Tony Garnett. 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 Karen Young.

Ending Explained: Handgun

Ending Breakdown: Directed by Tony Garnett, Handgun attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.

The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Karen Young, 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 Handgun reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Handgun Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?

Handgun incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, action, crime film directed by Tony Garnett, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Karen Young'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: Handgun adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.

Who Should Watch Handgun?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Drama films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Top Cast: Handgun

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Karen Young
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Joe Bowman
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John Tufts Jr.
John Tufts Jr.Tranquillizer Gun Man
Norine Williams
Norine WilliamsStudent with Baby
Kitty Harlen
Kitty HarlenMrs. Sullivan
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Where to Watch Handgun Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

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🏷️ Buy on

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Handgun Parents Guide & Age Rating

1983 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Handgun age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Handgun is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Handgun is 101 minutes (1h 41m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.6/10, and global performance metrics, Handgun is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1983 cinematic calendar.

ABOVE AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Handgun. Rating: 5.6/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Handgun worth watching?

Handgun is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Handgun parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Handgun identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Handgun?

The total duration of Handgun is 101 minutes, which is approximately 1h 41m long.

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How Handgun Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Handgun

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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.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.6
Handgun
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