Notorious
Performance & Direction: Notorious Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Notorious (2009) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Music.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Music is often anchored by its ensemble, and Notorious features a noteworthy lineup led by Jamal Woolard . Supported by the likes of Derek Luke and Naturi Naughton , 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: Notorious
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2009, Notorious is a Music, Drama, History film directed by George Tillman Jr.. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jamal Woolard.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. "Notorious" is the story of Christopher Wallace. Through raw talent and sheer determination, Wallace transforms himself from Brooklyn street hustler (once selling crack to pregnant women) to one of the greatest rappers of all time: The Notorious B.I.G. Follow his meteoric rise to fame and his refusal to succumb to expectations - redefining our notion of "The American Dream." The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Jamal Woolard's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: Notorious
Ending Breakdown: Directed by George Tillman Jr., Notorious concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to music resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Jamal Woolard, 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 music themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Notorious reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Notorious Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Notorious draws heavily from documented historical records. As a music, drama, history film directed by George Tillman Jr., it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Jamal Woolard'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, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: Notorious adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Notorious?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Music films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jamal Woolard or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Notorious
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $43.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Top Cast: Notorious
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Notorious Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Google Play MoviesYouTubeNotorious Parents Guide & Age Rating
2009 AdvisoryWondering about Notorious age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Notorious is 122 minutes (2h 2m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.9/10, and global performance metrics, Notorious is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2009 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Notorious worth watching?
Notorious is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Music movies. It has a verified rating of 6.9/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Notorious parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Notorious identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Notorious?
The total duration of Notorious is 122 minutes, which is approximately 2h 2m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Notorious
How Notorious Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Notorious
No reviews found for this filter.
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.
