Set It Off
Performance & Direction: Set It Off Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Set It Off (1996) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Set It Off features a noteworthy lineup led by Jada Pinkett Smith . Supported by the likes of Queen Latifah and Vivica A. Fox , 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: Set It Off
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1996, Set It Off is a Crime, Drama, Thriller film directed by F. Gary Gray. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jada Pinkett Smith.
Ending Explained: Set It Off
Ending Breakdown: Directed by F. Gary Gray, Set It Off resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Jada Pinkett Smith, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Set It Off reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Set It Off Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Set It Off incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, thriller film directed by F. Gary Gray, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Jada Pinkett Smith's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Set It Off adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Set It Off?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jada Pinkett Smith or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Set It Off
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $9.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $41.6M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Set It Off Budget
The estimated production budget for Set It Off is $9.0M. 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: Set It Off
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Set It Off Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoSet It Off Parents Guide & Age Rating
1996 AdvisoryWondering about Set It Off age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Set It Off is 123 minutes (2h 3m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.2/10, and global performance metrics, Set It Off is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1996 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Set It Off worth watching?
Set It Off is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Set It Off parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Set It Off identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Set It Off?
The total duration of Set It Off is 123 minutes, which is approximately 2h 3m 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.
