Silent Running
Silent Running Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Movie Overview: Silent Running
| Movie | Silent Running |
| Release Year | 1972 |
| Director | Douglas Trumbull |
| Genre | Adventure / Science Fiction / Drama |
| Runtime | 89 minutes (1h 29m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Silent Running (1972) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Adventure.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Silent Running are led by Bruce Dern . The supporting cast, including Cliff Potts and Ron Rifkin , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Silent Running does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Adventure films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Silent Running has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Adventure fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Silent Running
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1972, Silent Running is a Adventure, Science Fiction, Drama film directed by Douglas Trumbull, written by Deric Washburn. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Bruce Dern as Freeman Lowell.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. After the entire flora goes extinct, ecologist Lowell maintains a greenhouse aboard a space station for the future with his android companions. However, he rebels after being ordered to destroy the greenhouse in favor of carrying cargo, a decision that puts him at odds with everyone but his mechanical companions. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: Silent Running establishes its world and central conflict efficiently, with Douglas Trumbull introducing Bruce Dern as Freeman Lowell in the opening act, and in a brisk 89-minute runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Bruce Dern's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings the narrative threads together, with Bruce Dern's arc reaching resolution. Douglas Trumbull's handling of the finale provides adequate resolution.
Ending Explained: Silent Running
Silent Running Ending Explained: Directed by Douglas Trumbull, Silent Running wraps up the main storyline while leaving some interpretation to viewers. The ending highlights the core adventure themes developed throughout the film.
The emotional resolution focuses on the transformation of its main characters, particularly in scenes involving Bruce Dern. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
- Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the adventure themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of Silent Running reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
Who Should Watch Silent Running?
Age Advisory: Rated G — suitable for all ages.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Adventure films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Bruce Dern or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
At just 89 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Box Office Collection: Silent Running
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $1.0M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Silent Running Budget
The estimated production budget for Silent Running is $1.0M. 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.
Where to Watch Silent Running Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoSilent Running Parents Guide & Age Rating
1972 AdvisoryWondering about Silent Running age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Silent Running (1972) is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Directed by Douglas Trumbull, the film runs for 89 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, Silent Running is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1972 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Silent Running worth watching?
Silent Running is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Adventure movies. It has a verified rating of 6.4/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Silent Running parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Silent Running identifies it as G. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Silent Running (1972)?
The runtime of Silent Running (1972) is 89 minutes (approximately 1h 29m).
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.
