Is Reward Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Reward is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Reward Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1980, Reward enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on A dispirited cop chucks his job on the force and, with the help of a college co-ed, sets out to solve the murder of a police colleague who had been his best friend. Under the direction of E.W. Swackhamer, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Michael Parks. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Reward offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Reward resonates with current cultural themes in the Crime space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Reward is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Reward centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. A dispirited cop chucks his job on the force and, with the help of a college co-ed, sets out to solve the murder of a police colleague who had been his best friend. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1980 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Reward has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Reward sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Reward (1980): with an audience rating of 5/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Crime, Drama, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Reward has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Crime, Drama, TV Movie), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5/10, and global collection metrics, Reward stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1980 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reward movie hit or flop?
Reward has received mixed reviews with a 5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Reward worth watching?
Reward is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Reward online?
Reward may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Michael Parks
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Reward movie hit or flop?
Reward has received mixed reviews with a 5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Reward worth watching?
Reward is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Reward online?
Reward may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Reward?
Reward is a Crime, Drama, TV Movie movie that follows: A dispirited cop chucks his job on the force and, with the help of a college co-ed, sets out to solve the murder of a police colleague who had been his best friend....
Is Reward family friendly?
Reward falls under Crime, Drama, TV Movie, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is Reward available in?
Reward is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
A dispirited cop chucks his job on the force and, with the help of a college co-ed, sets out to solve the murder of a police colleague who had been his best friend.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.