Samba
Performance & Direction: Samba Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Samba (2014) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Samba features a noteworthy lineup led by Omar Sy . Supported by the likes of Charlotte Gainsbourg and Tahar Rahim , 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: Samba
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2014, Samba is a Drama, Comedy film directed by Olivier Nakache. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Omar Sy.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Samba migrated to France 10 years ago from Senegal, and has since been plugging away at various lowly jobs. Alice is a senior executive who has recently undergone a burnout. Both struggle to get out of their dead-end lives. Samba's willing to do whatever it takes to get working papers, while Alice tries to get her life back on track until fate draws them together. The screenplay takes time to develop Omar Sy's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Omar Sy's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: Samba
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Olivier Nakache, Samba concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Omar Sy, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Samba reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Samba?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Omar Sy or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Samba
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $20.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $151.5K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Samba Budget
The estimated production budget for Samba is $20.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Samba
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Samba Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
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Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeSamba Parents Guide & Age Rating
2014 AdvisoryWondering about Samba age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Samba is 118 minutes (1h 58m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, Samba is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2014 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Samba worth watching?
Samba is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.4/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Samba parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Samba identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Samba?
The total duration of Samba is 118 minutes, which is approximately 1h 58m long.
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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.
