Is Obituary Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Obituary is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Obituary Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2006, Obituary emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, TV Movie domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Denise's job at the Tribune isn't as glamorous as it sounds, especially since the only writing she does is for obituaries. Unlike standard genre fare, Obituary attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of John Bradshaw, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Thriller elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Obituary features a noteworthy lineup led by Craig Olejnik. Supported by the likes of Grant Nickalls and Josie Bissett, 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. However, the sheer charisma of Craig Olejnik, Grant Nickalls, Josie Bissett manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 2006 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Thriller, TV Movie space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Obituary is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of Obituary follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 90 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, Obituary resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Thriller landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 5.2/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, Obituary is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. Denise's job at the Tribune isn't as glamorous as it sounds, especially since the only writing she does is for obituaries. But her life gets a jolt of excitement when she stumbles upon a murder scene involving someone whose death announcement she's already read! As Denise gets pulled deeper into the investigation, things become even more creepy and unbelievable. But she'd better be careful — or the next obit may be her own!
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Obituary (2006) is overwhelmingly divisive. With an audience rating of 5.2/10 and strong performance metrics in the Thriller, TV Movie categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Craig Olejnik, Grant Nickalls, Josie Bissett or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Obituary is a significant contribution to the cinema of 2006. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Where to Watch Obituary Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Shout! Factory Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
Obituary has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Thriller, TV Movie), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.2/10, and global collection metrics, Obituary stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2006 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Obituary movie hit or flop?
Obituary has received mixed reviews with a 5.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Obituary worth watching?
Obituary is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Thriller, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Obituary online?
Obituary is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Shout! Factory Amazon Channel depending on your region.
Explore More Verdicts
Synopsis
Denise's job at the Tribune isn't as glamorous as it sounds, especially since the only writing she does is for obituaries. But her life gets a jolt of excitement when she stumbles upon a murder scene involving someone whose death announcement she's already read! As Denise gets pulled deeper into the investigation, things become even more creepy and unbelievable. But she'd better be careful — or the next obit may be her own!