Small Vices Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: Small Vices
| Movie | Small Vices |
| Release Year | 1999 |
| Director | Robert Markowitz |
| Genre | Crime / Drama / Mystery / TV Movie |
| Runtime | 89 minutes (1h 29m) |
| Language | EN |
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 3.3/10. 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 & Character Study
The performances in Small Vices are led by Joe Mantegna . The supporting cast, including Eugene Lipinski and Laila Robins , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Small Vices does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Crime films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Small Vices 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 Crime fanbase
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. As part of the Spenser Collection, it provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Joe Mantegna as Spenser.
Ending Explained: Small Vices
Small Vices Ending Explained: Bested on the best-selling novel by author Robert B. Directed by Robert Markowitz, this 1999 crime film stars Joe Mantegna (Spenser), alongside Eugene Lipinski as Grey Man / Rugar, Laila Robins as Rita Fiore, Chris Britton as Partner #1. Rated 3.3/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Small Vices?
Bested on the best-selling novel by author Robert B. Parker, Joe Mantegna is Spenser - Boston's best-known private eye. Called upon to investigate a case of murder, corruption, and betrayal, the super sleuth finds himself marked for death and on the run from a ruthless international assassin.
Robert Markowitz's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Joe Mantegna (Spenser)'s journey. Parker, Joe Mantegna is Spenser - Boston's best-known private eye.
As part of the Spenser Collection, the ending carries additional weight for fans following the franchise.
How Does Joe Mantegna (Spenser)'s Story End?
- Joe Mantegna: Joe Mantegna's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Eugene Lipinski (Grey Man / Rugar): Eugene Lipinski's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Laila Robins (Rita Fiore): Laila Robins's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Small Vices Mean?
The ending of Small Vices brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Joe Mantegna's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Small Vices Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Small Vices Based on a True Story?
Yes, Small Vices draws from real criminal cases and investigative records. Directed by Robert Markowitz and starring Joe Mantegna, this crime, drama, mystery, tv movie film explores how real events have been adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version of Small Vices
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: Small Vices uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch Small Vices?
Age Advisory: Rated PG-13.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 89 minutes, it's a quick watch.
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 (1999) is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Directed by Robert Markowitz, the film runs for 89 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 3.3/10, 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 3.3/10 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 runtime of Small Vices (1999)?
The runtime of Small Vices (1999) 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.
Useful Links
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Part of the Spenser Collection
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