Smokin' Aces
Performance & Direction: Smokin' Aces Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Smokin' Aces (2006) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Smokin' Aces features a noteworthy lineup led by Ryan Reynolds . Supported by the likes of Andy Garcia and Martin Henderson , 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: Smokin' Aces
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2006, Smokin' Aces is a Action, Comedy, Crime, Thriller film directed by Joe Carnahan. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Ryan Reynolds.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Joe Carnahan establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. When a Las Vegas performer-turned-snitch named Buddy Israel decides to turn state's evidence and testify against the mob, it seems that a whole lot of people would like to make sure he's no longer breathing. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Ryan Reynolds, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Ryan Reynolds's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Smokin' Aces
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Joe Carnahan, Smokin' Aces concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Ryan Reynolds, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Smokin' Aces reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Smokin' Aces Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Smokin' Aces incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, comedy, crime, thriller film directed by Joe Carnahan, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Ryan Reynolds'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: Smokin' Aces adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Smokin' Aces?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Ryan Reynolds or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Smokin' Aces
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $17.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $57.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Smokin' Aces Budget
The estimated production budget for Smokin' Aces is $17.0M. 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: Smokin' Aces
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Smokin' Aces Online?
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Apple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeSmokin' Aces Parents Guide & Age Rating
2006 AdvisoryWondering about Smokin' Aces age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Smokin' Aces is 109 minutes (1h 49m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.5/10, and global performance metrics, Smokin' Aces is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2006 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smokin' Aces worth watching?
Smokin' Aces is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Smokin' Aces parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Smokin' Aces identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Smokin' Aces?
The total duration of Smokin' Aces is 109 minutes, which is approximately 1h 49m long.
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Critic Reviews for Smokin' Aces
I don't think I can tell you that _Smokin' Aces_ is **good**. But I have seen the movie on three seperate occasions in the past thirteen years, roughly evenly spread apart. And each time I have not only enjoyed it, I enjoyed it more than the last time. This movie is **very** dumb. But fast and fun and oh boy what a cast. _Final rating:★★★½ - I really liked it. Would strongly recommend you give it your time._
Sometimes wild, sometimes confusing action-thriller that boasts a great cast, but in the end, this wasn't a Carnahan movie that really did it for me. **2.75/5**
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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