Is King of the Mountain Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, King of the Mountain is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
King of the Mountain Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1981, King of the Mountain enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on A group of friends race their high-powered cars up and down a dangerous and deadly mountain road known as Mulholland Drive to see who can claim the title of "King of the Hill. Under the direction of Noel Nosseck, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Harry Hamlin. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, King of the Mountain offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, King of the Mountain resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, King of the Mountain is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of King of the Mountain centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. A group of friends race their high-powered cars up and down a dangerous and deadly mountain road known as Mulholland Drive to see who can claim the title of "King of the Hill." The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1981 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of King of the Mountain has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a King of the Mountain sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for King of the Mountain (1981): with an audience rating of 5.5/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Action cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
King of the Mountain Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $2,000,000 |
| Worldwide Gross | $958,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
King of the Mountain Budget
The estimated production budget for King of the Mountain is $2,000,000. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Where to Watch King of the Mountain Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
King of the Mountain is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, King of the Mountain stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1981 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is King of the Mountain movie hit or flop?
King of the Mountain has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is King of the Mountain worth watching?
King of the Mountain is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Action movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch King of the Mountain online?
King of the Mountain may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is King of the Mountain movie hit or flop?
King of the Mountain has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is King of the Mountain worth watching?
King of the Mountain is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Action movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch King of the Mountain online?
King of the Mountain may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of King of the Mountain?
King of the Mountain is a Drama, Action movie that follows: A group of friends race their high-powered cars up and down a dangerous and deadly mountain road known as Mulholland Drive to see who can claim the title of "King of the Hill."...
Is King of the Mountain family friendly?
King of the Mountain is classified as Drama, Action. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is King of the Mountain available in?
King of the Mountain is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
A group of friends race their high-powered cars up and down a dangerous and deadly mountain road known as Mulholland Drive to see who can claim the title of "King of the Hill."
Critic Reviews
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