Not Only But Always Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Movie Overview: Not Only But Always
| Movie | Not Only But Always |
| Release Year | 2004 |
| Director | Terry Johnson |
| Genre | Drama / Comedy |
| Runtime | 100 minutes (1h 40m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Not Only But Always (2004) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Not Only But Always are led by Rhys Ifans . The supporting cast, including Aidan McArdle and Jodie Rimmer , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Not Only But Always stands out as a strong entry in the Drama genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Not Only But Always has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Not Only But Always
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2004, Not Only But Always is a Drama, Comedy film directed by Terry Johnson, written by Terry Johnson. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Rhys Ifans as Peter Cook.
Ending Explained: Not Only But Always
Not Only But Always Ending Explained: The story of the working and personal relationship between the comedians Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, a hugely popular duo in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s. Directed by Terry Johnson, this 2004 drama film stars Rhys Ifans (Peter Cook), alongside Aidan McArdle as Dudley Moore, Jodie Rimmer as Wendy Snowden, Camilla Power as Judy Huxtable. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Not Only But Always?
The story of the working and personal relationship between the comedians Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, a hugely popular duo in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s. Focusing primarily on Cook, the film traces the pair from their first meeting through their career as part of the Beyond the Fringe review, their television series Not Only... But Also and various other projects before their later estrangement as Moore became a successful Hollywood film star and Cook remained in the UK.
Terry Johnson's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Rhys Ifans (Peter Cook)'s journey. Focusing primarily on Cook, the film traces the pair from their first meeting through their career as part of the Beyond the Fringe review, their television series Not Only.
How Does Rhys Ifans (Peter Cook)'s Story End?
- Rhys Ifans: Rhys Ifans's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Aidan McArdle (Dudley Moore): Aidan McArdle's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Jodie Rimmer (Wendy Snowden): Jodie Rimmer's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Not Only But Always Mean?
Not Only But Always's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Rhys Ifans may feel rushed. Terry Johnson's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Not Only But Always Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Not Only But Always Based on a True Story?
No, Not Only But Always is a work of fiction. While the drama, comedy film directed by Terry Johnson and starring Rhys Ifans may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Not Only But Always?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Rhys Ifans or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Not Only But Always Parents Guide & Age Rating
2004 AdvisoryWondering about Not Only But Always age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Not Only But Always (2004) is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Directed by Terry Johnson, the film runs for 100 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.5/10, and global performance metrics, Not Only But Always is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2004 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Not Only But Always worth watching?
Not Only But Always is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Not Only But Always parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Not Only But Always identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Not Only But Always (2004)?
The runtime of Not Only But Always (2004) is 100 minutes (approximately 1h 40m).
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.
