Performance & Direction: Necessity Review
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Necessity (1988) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 4.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Necessity features a noteworthy lineup led by Loni Anderson . Supported by the likes of Hank Baumert and Diana Bellamy , 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: Necessity
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1988, Necessity is a Drama, Crime, TV Movie film directed by Michael Miller. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Loni Anderson.
Ending Explained: Necessity
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Michael Miller, Necessity attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Loni Anderson, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Necessity reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Necessity Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Necessity incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, crime, tv movie film directed by Michael Miller, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Loni Anderson'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: Necessity adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Necessity?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Necessity
All Cast & Crew →
Necessity Parents Guide & Age Rating
1988 AdvisoryWondering about Necessity age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Necessity is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.0/10, and global performance metrics, Necessity is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1988 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Necessity worth watching?
Necessity is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 4/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Necessity parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Necessity identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Necessity?
The total duration of Necessity is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m 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.
