Verdict:National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.0/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy genre.
Answer: Yes, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 152 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 2013, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Academy Award nominee and Tony Award-winner John Lithgow (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Shrek, 3rd Rock from the Sun) takes the title role in Arthur Wing Pinero’s uproarious Victorian farce, directed by Olivier Award-winner Timothy Sheader (Crazy for You and Into the Woods, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London). Under the direction of Timothy Sheader, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from John Lithgow, Nancy Carroll, Christina Cole. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 152-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Beyond the narrative, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of January 2026, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
The plot of National Theatre Live: The Magistrate centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Academy Award nominee and Tony Award-winner John Lithgow (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Shrek, 3rd Rock from the Sun) takes the title role in Arthur Wing Pinero’s uproarious Victorian farce, directed by Olivier Award-winner Timothy Sheader (Crazy for You and Into the Woods, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London). In a similar vein to the National Theatre’s smash-hit classic comedies, She Stoops to Conquer and London Assurance, The Magistrate is sure to have audiences doubled up with laughter. When amiable magistrate Posket (John Lithgow) marries Agatha (Olivier Award-winner Nancy Carroll, After the Dance), little does he realise she’s dropped five years from her age – and her son’s. When her deception looks set to be revealed, it sparks a series of hilarious indignities and outrageous mishaps. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2013 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of National Theatre Live: The Magistrate 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 National Theatre Live: The Magistrate sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for National Theatre Live: The Magistrate (2013): with an audience rating of 6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2013 cinematic year.
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is a Comedy movie that Academy Award nominee and Tony Award-winner John Lithgow (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Shrek, 3rd Rock from the Sun) takes the title role in Arthur Wing P...
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is a Comedy movie that Academy Award nominee and Tony Award-winner John Lithgow (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Shrek, 3rd Rock from the Sun) takes the title role in Arthur Wing P...
Yes, National Theatre Live: The Magistrate is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy genre.
You can find streaming options and availability for National Theatre Live: The Magistrate on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
National Theatre Live: The Magistrate features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
The runtime and duration of National Theatre Live: The Magistrate are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
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