Is Maidstone Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Maidstone is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 106 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Maidstone Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1971, Maidstone enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Over a booze-fueled, increasingly hectic five-day shoot in East Hampton, Norman Mailer and his cast and crew spontaneously unloaded onto film the lurid and loony chronicle of U. Under the direction of Norman Mailer, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Norman Mailer. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Maidstone 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, Maidstone 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, Maidstone is available for streaming on Criterion Channel. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Maidstone centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Over a booze-fueled, increasingly hectic five-day shoot in East Hampton, Norman Mailer and his cast and crew spontaneously unloaded onto film the lurid and loony chronicle of U.S. presidential candidate and filmmaker Norman T. Kingsley debating and attacking his hangers-on and enemies. This gonzo narrative, “an inkblot test of Mailer’s own subconscious” (Time), becomes something like a documentary on its own making when costar Rip Torn breaks the fourth wall in one of cinema’s most alarming on-screen outbursts. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1971 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Maidstone 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 Maidstone sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Maidstone (1971): with an audience rating of 3.9/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Maidstone Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Criterion ChannelParents Guide & Age Rating
Maidstone has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.9/10, and global collection metrics, Maidstone stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1971 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maidstone movie hit or flop?
Maidstone is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.9/10 and lower collections.
Is Maidstone worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.9/10, Maidstone may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Maidstone online?
Maidstone is currently available for streaming on Criterion Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like Criterion Channel depending on your region.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Norman Mailer
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Maidstone movie hit or flop?
Maidstone is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.9/10 and lower collections.
Is Maidstone worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.9/10, Maidstone may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Maidstone online?
Maidstone is currently available for streaming on Criterion Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like Criterion Channel depending on your region.
What is the story of Maidstone?
Maidstone is a Drama movie that follows: Over a booze-fueled, increasingly hectic five-day shoot in East Hampton, Norman Mailer and his cast and crew spontaneously unloaded onto film the lurid and loony chronicle of U.S. presidential candida...
Is Maidstone family friendly?
Maidstone is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Maidstone available in?
Maidstone is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Over a booze-fueled, increasingly hectic five-day shoot in East Hampton, Norman Mailer and his cast and crew spontaneously unloaded onto film the lurid and loony chronicle of U.S. presidential candidate and filmmaker Norman T. Kingsley debating and attacking his hangers-on and enemies. This gonzo narrative, “an inkblot test of Mailer’s own subconscious” (Time), becomes something like a documentary on its own making when costar Rip Torn breaks the fourth wall in one of cinema’s most alarming on-screen outbursts.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.