Screamers
Performance & Direction: Screamers Review
Last updated: February 14, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Screamers (1995) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Screamers features a noteworthy lineup led by Peter Weller . Supported by the likes of Jennifer Rubin and Roy Dupuis , 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: Screamers
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1995, Screamers is a Horror, Science Fiction, War film directed by Christian Duguay. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Peter Weller.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. SIRIUS 6B, Year 2078. On a distant mining planet ravaged by a decade of war, scientists have created the perfect weapon: a blade-wielding, self-replicating race of killing devices known as Screamers designed for one purpose only -- to hunt down and destroy all enemy life forms. Director Christian Duguay uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Peter Weller's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Ending Explained: Screamers
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Christian Duguay, Screamers concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Peter Weller, 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Screamers reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Screamers Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Screamers uses real-world events as narrative inspiration. As a horror, science fiction, war film directed by Christian Duguay, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Peter Weller'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, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: Screamers adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Screamers?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Horror films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Peter Weller or the director
- Want a few scares and creepy atmosphere
Box Office Collection: Screamers
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $20.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $5.8M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Screamers Budget
The estimated production budget for Screamers 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: Screamers
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Screamers Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeScreamers Parents Guide & Age Rating
1995 AdvisoryWondering about Screamers age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Screamers is 108 minutes (1h 48m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.2/10, and global performance metrics, Screamers is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1995 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Screamers worth watching?
Screamers is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 6.2/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Screamers parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Screamers identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Screamers?
The total duration of Screamers is 108 minutes, which is approximately 1h 48m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Screamers
How Screamers Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Screamers
Unfortunately, not quite the movie I remember it being when I was a kid. Not bad, even worth watching, especially for Peter Weller, but I think I had made a better version of it in my head in the twenty years since the last time I watched it, so this re-visit was a little disappointing. _Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._
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.
Useful Links
More with Peter Weller
View full filmography
Part of the Screamers Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise