Is Rivals Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Rivals is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 110 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Rivals Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1981, Rivals enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on After the death of his father, Adam moves (with his family) from their sheep farm in Wyoming to Los Angeles. Under the direction of Lyman Dayton, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Stewart Petersen. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Rivals 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, Rivals resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama 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, Rivals 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 Rivals centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. After the death of his father, Adam moves (with his family) from their sheep farm in Wyoming to Los Angeles. Soon after arriving, Adam gets mixed up with Clyde, a mannerless bully who enjoys pulling pranks on Adam and putting him down for his rural image. Adam, in turn, gets back at Clyde on a number of occasions, and the two soon become rivals. When Clyde starts taking a fancy to Adam's sister, and his girfriend starts hanging out with Adam, relations between the two rapidly come to a head. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1981 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Rivals 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 Rivals sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Rivals (1981): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Rivals Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Rivals is rated PG. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Rivals stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1981 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rivals movie hit or flop?
Rivals is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Rivals worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Rivals may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Rivals online?
Rivals 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.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Rivals movie hit or flop?
Rivals is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Rivals worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Rivals may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Rivals online?
Rivals 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 Rivals?
Rivals is a Drama movie that follows: After the death of his father, Adam moves (with his family) from their sheep farm in Wyoming to Los Angeles. Soon after arriving, Adam gets mixed up with Clyde, a mannerless bully who enjoys pulling p...
Is Rivals family friendly?
Rivals is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Rivals available in?
Rivals is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
After the death of his father, Adam moves (with his family) from their sheep farm in Wyoming to Los Angeles. Soon after arriving, Adam gets mixed up with Clyde, a mannerless bully who enjoys pulling pranks on Adam and putting him down for his rural image. Adam, in turn, gets back at Clyde on a number of occasions, and the two soon become rivals. When Clyde starts taking a fancy to Adam's sister, and his girfriend starts hanging out with Adam, relations between the two rapidly come to a head.
Critic Reviews
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