Verdict:Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.8/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Thriller, Drama, TV Movie genre.
Answer: Yes, Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 104 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1990, Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture enters the Thriller genre with a narrative focused on Raymond Eames, a small-time drug dealer, has been sentenced to death for the shooting death of a policeman. Under the direction of Frank Pierson, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Roy Scheider, Bonnie Bedelia, Arliss Howard. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture resonates with current cultural themes in the Thriller space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of January 2026, Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
The plot of Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture centers on a unique premise within the Thriller landscape. Raymond Eames, a small-time drug dealer, has been sentenced to death for the shooting death of a policeman. After seven years of appeals are exhausted, the date of his execution arrives. His last request is that his execution be photographed. Eames selects Paul Marish, a jaded Pulitzer Prize winning photographer, who is convinced by his agent to visit the small town in Georgia. Sensing a big story, Marish's agent sends in a reporter from Time magazine, and together they begin to investigate the events surrounding the murder, in a small town where emotions are high and opinions are fixed. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1990 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture (1990): with an audience rating of 6.8/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Thriller, Drama, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1990 cinematic year.
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Thriller, Drama, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is a Thriller, Drama, TV Movie movie that Raymond Eames, a small-time drug dealer, has been sentenced to death for the shooting death of a policeman. After seven years of appeals are exhausted...
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Thriller, Drama, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture is a Thriller, Drama, TV Movie movie that Raymond Eames, a small-time drug dealer, has been sentenced to death for the shooting death of a policeman. After seven years of appeals are exhausted...
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Thriller, Drama, TV Movie elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
You can find streaming options and availability for Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
The runtime and duration of Somebody Has to Shoot the Picture are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
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