Is Scum of the Earth! Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Scum of the Earth! is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 75 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.

Verdict:Scum of the Earth! is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 5.2/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Crime, Drama, Thriller genre.
Answer: Maybe not, Scum of the Earth! is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 75 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1963, Scum of the Earth! enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on An innocent teenager is blackmailed into nude modeling for a photographer in league with a gang boss who sells illicit photos of terrorized young women. Under the direction of Herschell Gordon Lewis, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from William Kerwin, Allison Louise Downe, Lawrence J. Aberwood. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Scum of the Earth! 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.
Beyond the narrative, Scum of the Earth! 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.
As of January 2026, Scum of the Earth! is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
The plot of Scum of the Earth! centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. An innocent teenager is blackmailed into nude modeling for a photographer in league with a gang boss who sells illicit photos of terrorized young women. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1963 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Scum of the Earth! 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 Scum of the Earth! sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Scum of the Earth! (1963): with an audience rating of 5.2/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Crime, Drama, Thriller cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $11,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The estimated production budget for Scum of the Earth! is $11,000. 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.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.2/10, and global collection metrics, Scum of the Earth! stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1963 cinematic year.
Scum of the Earth! has received mixed reviews with a 5.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Scum of the Earth! is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Scum of the Earth! is a Crime, Drama, Thriller movie that An innocent teenager is blackmailed into nude modeling for a photographer in league with a gang boss who sells illicit photos of terrorized young wome...
Scum of the Earth! has received mixed reviews with a 5.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Scum of the Earth! is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Scum of the Earth! is a Crime, Drama, Thriller movie that An innocent teenager is blackmailed into nude modeling for a photographer in league with a gang boss who sells illicit photos of terrorized young wome...
Scum of the Earth! may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Crime, Drama, Thriller elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
You can find streaming options and availability for Scum of the Earth! on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Scum of the Earth! features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
The runtime and duration of Scum of the Earth! are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
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