Lust, Caution
Performance & Direction: Lust, Caution Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Lust, Caution (2007) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. 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 Lust, Caution features a noteworthy lineup led by Tony Leung Chiu-wai . Supported by the likes of Tang Wei and Joan Chen , 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: Lust, Caution
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2007, Lust, Caution is a Action, Drama, Romance, Thriller film directed by Ang Lee. 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 Tony Leung Chiu-wai.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Ang Lee establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. During World War II, a secret agent must seduce and assassinate an official who works for the Japanese puppet government in Shanghai. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Tony Leung Chiu-wai, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Tony Leung Chiu-wai's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Lust, Caution
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Ang Lee, Lust, Caution resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Tony Leung Chiu-wai, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Lust, Caution reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Lust, Caution?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Tony Leung Chiu-wai or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Lust, Caution
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $15.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $67.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Lust, Caution Budget
The estimated production budget for Lust, Caution is $15.0M. 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.
Top Cast: Lust, Caution
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Where to Watch Lust, Caution Online?
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Apple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeLust, Caution Parents Guide & Age Rating
2007 AdvisoryWondering about Lust, Caution age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Lust, Caution is 158 minutes (2h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.3/10, and global performance metrics, Lust, Caution is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2007 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lust, Caution worth watching?
Lust, Caution is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Lust, Caution parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Lust, Caution identifies it as NC-17. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Lust, Caution?
The total duration of Lust, Caution is 158 minutes, which is approximately 2h 38m long.
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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.
