Performance & Direction: Praying Mantis Review
Last updated: February 27, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Praying Mantis (1982) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Romance.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Romance is often anchored by its ensemble, and Praying Mantis features a noteworthy lineup led by Jonathan Pryce . Supported by the likes of Cherie Lunghi and Carmen du Sautoy , 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: Praying Mantis
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1982, Praying Mantis is a Romance, Drama, Crime, TV Movie film directed by Jack Gold. The narrative explores the complexities of love and relationships with emotional depth and authenticity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jonathan Pryce.
Ending Explained: Praying Mantis
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Jack Gold, Praying Mantis attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to romance resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Jonathan Pryce, 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 romance themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Praying Mantis reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Praying Mantis Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Praying Mantis incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a romance, drama, crime, tv movie film directed by Jack Gold, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Jonathan Pryce'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: Praying Mantis adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Praying Mantis?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Romance films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Praying Mantis
All Cast & Crew →
Praying Mantis Parents Guide & Age Rating
1982 AdvisoryWondering about Praying Mantis age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Praying Mantis is 113 minutes (1h 53m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.0/10, and global performance metrics, Praying Mantis is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1982 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Praying Mantis worth watching?
Praying Mantis is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Romance movies. It has a verified rating of 5/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Praying Mantis parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Praying Mantis identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Praying Mantis?
The total duration of Praying Mantis is 113 minutes, which is approximately 1h 53m long.
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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.
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