Side Effects
Performance & Direction: Side Effects Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Side Effects (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Side Effects features a noteworthy lineup led by Rooney Mara . Supported by the likes of Jude Law and Catherine Zeta-Jones , 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: Side Effects
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2013, Side Effects is a Thriller, Crime, Drama film directed by Steven Soderbergh. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Rooney Mara.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. A woman turns to prescription medication as a way of handling her anxiety concerning her husband's upcoming release from prison. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside Rooney Mara. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that will drive the narrative forward.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Rooney Mara's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Ending Explained: Side Effects
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Steven Soderbergh, Side Effects concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Rooney Mara, 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Side Effects reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Side Effects Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Side Effects incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a thriller, crime, drama film directed by Steven Soderbergh, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Rooney Mara'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, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Side Effects adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Side Effects?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Rooney Mara or the director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Box Office Collection: Side Effects
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $30.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $63.4M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Side Effects Budget
The estimated production budget for Side Effects is $30.0M. 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: Side Effects
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Where to Watch Side Effects Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
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Shout! Factory Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
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Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
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Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeSide Effects Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about Side Effects age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Side Effects is 106 minutes (1h 46m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.6/10, and global performance metrics, Side Effects is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2013 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Side Effects worth watching?
Side Effects is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.6/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Side Effects parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Side Effects identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Side Effects?
The total duration of Side Effects is 106 minutes, which is approximately 1h 46m 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.
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