Shadow Play (1996) movie backdrop
Shadow Play (1996) movie poster
1996111 minDrama, Comedy

Shadow Play

Shadow Play Movie Hit or Flop?

HIT

Verdict:Shadow Play is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 7.4/10, it has delivered a compelling experience for fans of the Drama, Comedy genre.

Is Shadow Play Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, Shadow Play is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.

It features a runtime of 111 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.

7.48 votes
111Minutes
1996Release Year
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Shadow Play Review

Last updated: January 10, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1996, Shadow Play enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Ada and Lise are both costume designers, the first is around 20, the other around 30. Under the direction of Martine Dugowson, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Helena Bonham Carter, Romane Bohringer, Marie Trintignant. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.

🎥 Technical Aspects & Direction

From a technical standpoint, Shadow Play offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.

📺 Where to Watch

As of January 2026, Shadow Play is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.

📝 Final Thoughts

With an audience rating of 7.4/10, the reception has been generally positive. For fans of Drama, Comedy, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.

Cast of Shadow Play

  • Helena Bonham Carter – Ada
  • Romane Bohringer – Lisa
  • Marie Trintignant – Nina
  • Elsa Zylberstein – Emma
  • Yvan Attal – Yves

Top Highlights

Helena Bonham Carter
Helena Bonham CarterAda
Romane Bohringer
Romane BohringerLisa
Marie Trintignant
Marie TrintignantNina
Elsa Zylberstein
Elsa ZylbersteinEmma
Yvan Attal
Yvan AttalYves
Sergio Castellitto
Sergio CastellittoGuido
Predrag 'Miki' Manojlović
Predrag 'Miki' ManojlovićAlphonse
Jean-Claude Brialy
Jean-Claude BrialyRene Sandre
Mathilde Seigner
Mathilde SeignerFanny
Jean-Philippe Écoffey
Jean-Philippe ÉcoffeyPhilippe

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.4/10, and global collection metrics, Shadow Play stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1996 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shadow Play movie hit or flop?

Shadow Play is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.4/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, Comedy movies.

Is Shadow Play worth watching?

Yes, Shadow Play is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, Comedy cinema.

What genre is Shadow Play?

Shadow Play is a Drama, Comedy movie that Ada and Lise are both costume designers, the first is around 20, the other around 30. Both are working hard on their break through. There are also job...

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 7.4
Shadow Play
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/shadow-play-104103" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 7.4</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Shadow Play</div></div></a>

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