Illicit

  • 1931
  • NR
  • 77m
movieMx RATING
5.6/1021
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Illicit Review

Last updated: February 23, 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 23, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Illicit (1931) 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 Illicit features a noteworthy lineup led by Barbara Stanwyck . Supported by the likes of James Rennie and Ricardo Cortez , 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 Illicit (1931) 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, Illicit stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE.

Story & Plot Summary: Illicit

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1931, Illicit is a Drama, Romance film directed by Archie Mayo. 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 Barbara Stanwyck.

Ending Explained: Illicit

Ending Breakdown: Directed by Archie Mayo, Illicit attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.

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

Who Should Watch Illicit?

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: Illicit

All Cast & Crew →
Barbara Stanwyck
Barbara StanwyckAnne Vincent
James Rennie
James RennieRichard 'Dick' Ives II
Ricardo Cortez
Ricardo CortezPrice Baines
Natalie Moorhead
Natalie MoorheadMarjorie 'Margie' True
Charles Butterworth
Charles ButterworthGeorge 'Georgie' Evans
Joan Blondell
Joan BlondellHelen 'Duckie' Childers
Claude Gillingwater
Claude GillingwaterRichard Ives Sr.
Hazel Howell
Hazel HowellGirl at the Bridal Shower #2 (uncredited)
Lucille Ward
Lucille WardSusan - Anne's Maid (uncredited)
Barbara Weeks
Barbara WeeksGirl at the Bridal Shower #1 (uncredited)
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Where to Watch Illicit Online?

Streaming Hub

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Apple TV StoreApple TV Store

🏷️ Buy on

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Illicit Parents Guide & Age Rating

1931 Advisory
NR

Official Age Rating

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

Illicit is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains romantic content.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Illicit is 77 minutes (1h 17m). 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, Illicit is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1931 cinematic calendar.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Illicit worth watching?

Illicit 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 Illicit parents guide and age rating?

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

What is the total runtime of Illicit?

The total duration of Illicit is 77 minutes, which is approximately 1h 17m long.

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How Illicit Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Illicit

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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
Illicit
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