Performance & Direction: Small Vices Review
Last updated: March 6, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Small Vices (1999) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 1.0/10. 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 Small Vices features a noteworthy lineup led by Joe Mantegna . Supported by the likes of Eugene Lipinski and Laila Robins , 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: Small Vices
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1999, Small Vices is a Crime, Drama, Mystery, TV Movie film directed by Robert Markowitz. 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 Joe Mantegna.
Ending Explained: Small Vices
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Robert Markowitz, Small Vices attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Joe Mantegna, 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Small Vices reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Small Vices Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Small Vices incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, mystery, tv movie film directed by Robert Markowitz, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Joe Mantegna'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: Small Vices adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Small Vices?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Small Vices
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Small Vices Parents Guide & Age Rating
1999 AdvisoryWondering about Small Vices age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Small Vices is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 1.0/10, and global performance metrics, Small Vices is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1999 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Small Vices worth watching?
Small Vices is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 1/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Small Vices parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Small Vices identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Small Vices?
The total duration of Small Vices is 89 minutes, which is approximately 1h 29m long.
How Small Vices Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Small Vices
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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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