Performance & Direction: High Explosive Review
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is High Explosive (1943) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.7/10. 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 Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and High Explosive features a noteworthy lineup led by Chester Morris . Supported by the likes of Jean Parker and Barry Sullivan , 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: High Explosive
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1943, High Explosive is a Action, Drama film directed by Frank McDonald. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Chester Morris.
Ending Explained: High Explosive
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Frank McDonald, High Explosive attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Chester Morris, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of High Explosive reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch High Explosive?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: High Explosive
All Cast & Crew →
High Explosive Parents Guide & Age Rating
1943 AdvisoryWondering about High Explosive age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of High Explosive is 63 minutes (1h 3m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.7/10, and global performance metrics, High Explosive is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1943 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is High Explosive worth watching?
High Explosive is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 5.7/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find High Explosive parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for High Explosive identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of High Explosive?
The total duration of High Explosive is 63 minutes, which is approximately 1h 3m long.
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Critic Reviews for High Explosive
Barry Sullivan is a sort of Red Adair type, his company uses high explosives to put out dangerous fires. He recruits his old pal "Buzz" (Chester Morris) to help ship the nitro around and is rewarded by his pal hitting on his girlfriend "Connie" (Jean Parker) and on his younger brother's "Doris" (Barbara Lynn) too! Things don't quite go to plan for our Lothario and when tragedy ensues whilst he is shirking his duties, he has some making up to do! This has nothing memorable about it at all. it's a workmanlike vehicle for an engaging enough Morris with some decent pyrotechnics, a well travelled storyline and an efficient production that has a few (laboured) jokes before quite a strong last five minutes when it all comes to a head. Kills an hour.
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.
