National Security
Performance & Direction: National Security Review
Last updated: February 18, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is National Security (2003) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.0/10. 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 National Security features a noteworthy lineup led by Martin Lawrence . Supported by the likes of Steve Zahn and Colm Feore , 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: National Security
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2003, National Security is a Action, Comedy, Crime film directed by Dennis Dugan. 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 Martin Lawrence.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Dennis Dugan establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. Earl Montgomery, a bombastic police academy reject, and Hank Rafferty, a disgraced, mild-mannered cop, can't seem to escape each other. They met on opposite sides of the law during a routine traffic stop that escalated out of control; now as lowly security guards they're thrown together to bust a smuggling operation. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Martin Lawrence, 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. Martin Lawrence'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: National Security
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Dennis Dugan, National Security concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension involving Martin Lawrence, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of National Security reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
National Security Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
National Security incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, comedy, crime film directed by Dennis Dugan, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Martin Lawrence'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: National Security adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch National Security?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Martin Lawrence or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: National Security
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $50.1M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Top Cast: National Security
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Where to Watch National Security Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV Store
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TV StoreNational Security Parents Guide & Age Rating
2003 AdvisoryWondering about National Security age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of National Security is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.0/10, and global performance metrics, National Security is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2003 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is National Security worth watching?
National Security is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find National Security parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for National Security identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of National Security?
The total duration of National Security is 89 minutes, which is approximately 1h 29m long.
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Critic Reviews for National Security
'National Security' isn't terribly adrift from being a standard Martin Lawrence flick, which would be a compliment as he is an actor I've mildly enjoyed in said sorta roles down the years. This one just doesn't work, which is a shame as I also like co-star Steve Zahn in other films too. Zahn feels miscast, Lawrence is the one that stops this from truly falling through the floor. There are good jokes in there, albeit via the overly relied upon race humour, and it features some solid practical effects/stunts. I just never really got into it, nor did I sense that the leads were a satisfactory match for each other.
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.
