Sphinx

  • 1981
  • PG
  • 118m
movieMx RATING
5.5/1026
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Sphinx Review

Last updated: February 23, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: February 23, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Sphinx (1981) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Adventure.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Adventure is often anchored by its ensemble, and Sphinx features a noteworthy lineup led by Lesley-Anne Down . Supported by the likes of Frank Langella and Maurice Ronet , 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?

In summary, our editorial assessment of Sphinx (1981) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Result: ABOVE AVERAGE
Based on verified audience sentiment and box office trajectory, Sphinx stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE.

Story & Plot Summary: Sphinx

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1981, Sphinx is a Adventure, Mystery, Thriller film directed by Franklin J. Schaffner. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Lesley-Anne Down.

Ending Explained: Sphinx

Ending Breakdown: Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, Sphinx attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to adventure resolution.

The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Lesley-Anne Down, 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 adventure themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Sphinx reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Sphinx?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Adventure films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment

Box Office Collection: Sphinx

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $14.0M
Worldwide Gross $2.0M
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Sphinx Budget

The estimated production budget for Sphinx is $14.0M. 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.

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Top Cast: Sphinx

All Cast & Crew →
Lesley-Anne Down
Lesley-Anne DownErica Baron
Frank Langella
Frank LangellaAkmed Khazzan
Maurice Ronet
Maurice RonetYvon Mageot
John Gielgud
John GielgudAbdu-Hamdi
John Rhys-Davies
John Rhys-DaviesStephanos Markoulis
William Hootkins
William HootkinsDon, Tour Guide
James Cossins
James CossinsLord Carnarvon
Victoria Tennant
Victoria TennantLady Carnarvon
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Where to Watch Sphinx Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

Apple TV StoreApple TV Store
Amazon VideoAmazon Video

🏷️ Buy on

Apple TV StoreApple TV Store

Sphinx Parents Guide & Age Rating

1981 Advisory
PG

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Sphinx age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Sphinx is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. It is generally suitable for all ages.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Sphinx is 118 minutes (1h 58m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.5/10, and global performance metrics, Sphinx is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1981 cinematic calendar.

ABOVE AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Sphinx. Rating: 5.5/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sphinx worth watching?

Sphinx is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Adventure movies. It has a verified rating of 5.5/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Sphinx parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Sphinx identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Sphinx?

The total duration of Sphinx is 118 minutes, which is approximately 1h 58m long.

Best Movies to Watch if you liked Sphinx

How Sphinx Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Sphinx

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🛡️

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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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.5
Sphinx
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