Performance & Direction: Margin for Murder Review
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Margin for Murder (1981) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Margin for Murder features a noteworthy lineup led by Kevin Dobson . Supported by the likes of Charles Hallahan and Cindy Pickett , 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: Margin for Murder
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1981, Margin for Murder is a Crime, Mystery, TV Movie film directed by Daniel Haller. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Kevin Dobson.
Ending Explained: Margin for Murder
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Daniel Haller, Margin for Murder attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Kevin Dobson, 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Margin for Murder reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Margin for Murder Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Margin for Murder incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, mystery, tv movie film directed by Daniel Haller, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Kevin Dobson's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Margin for Murder adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Margin for Murder?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Margin for Murder
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Margin for Murder Parents Guide & Age Rating
1981 AdvisoryWondering about Margin for Murder age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Margin for Murder is 98 minutes (1h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.5/10, and global performance metrics, Margin for Murder is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1981 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Margin for Murder worth watching?
Margin for Murder is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 5.5/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Margin for Murder parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Margin for Murder identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Margin for Murder?
The total duration of Margin for Murder is 98 minutes, which is approximately 1h 38m long.
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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.
