Small Time Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Movie Overview: Small Time
| Movie | Small Time |
| Release Year | 1996 |
| Director | Shane Meadows |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 60 minutes (1h 0m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Small Time (1996) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Small Time are led by Shane Meadows . The supporting cast, including Mat Hand and Gena Kawecka , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Small Time does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Small Time 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 Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Small Time
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1996, Small Time is a Drama film directed by Shane Meadows, written by Shane Meadows. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Shane Meadows as Jumbo.
Ending Explained: Small Time
Small Time Ending Explained: Follows a gang of small time crooks in an English town. Directed by Shane Meadows, this 1996 drama film stars Shane Meadows (Jumbo), alongside Mat Hand as Malc, Gena Kawecka as Ruby, Dena Smiles as Kate. Rated 5.9/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Small Time?
Follows a gang of small time crooks in an English town. Malc is in danger of losing his girlfriend Kate if he doesn't spend more time at home and the gang leader Jumbo looks like he is about to lose control.
Shane Meadows's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Shane Meadows (Jumbo)'s journey. Malc is in danger of losing his girlfriend Kate if he doesn't spend more time at home and the gang leader Jumbo looks like he is about to lose control.
How Does Shane Meadows (Jumbo)'s Story End?
- Shane Meadows: Shane Meadows's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Mat Hand (Malc): Mat Hand's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Gena Kawecka (Ruby): Gena Kawecka's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Small Time Mean?
The ending of Small Time brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Shane Meadows's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Small Time Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Small Time Based on a True Story?
No, Small Time is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Shane Meadows and starring Shane Meadows may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Small Time?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 60 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Box Office Collection: Small Time
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $500.0K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Small Time Budget
The estimated production budget for Small Time is $500.0K. 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.
Small Time Parents Guide & Age Rating
1996 AdvisoryWondering about Small Time age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Small Time (1996) is 60 minutes (1h 0m). Directed by Shane Meadows, the film runs for 60 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.9/10, and global performance metrics, Small Time is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1996 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Small Time worth watching?
Small Time is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Small Time parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Small Time identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Small Time (1996)?
The runtime of Small Time (1996) is 60 minutes (approximately 1h 0m).
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.



