Performance & Direction: Stiff Review
Last updated: February 19, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Stiff (2004) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.2/10. 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 Stiff features a noteworthy lineup led by David Wenham . Supported by the likes of Mick Molloy and Deborah Kennedy , 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: Stiff
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2004, Stiff is a Crime, Comedy, TV Movie film directed by John Clarke. 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 David Wenham.
Ending Explained: Stiff
Ending Breakdown: Directed by John Clarke, Stiff resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to crime resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving David Wenham, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Stiff reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Stiff Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Stiff incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, comedy, tv movie film directed by John Clarke, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for David Wenham's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Stiff adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Stiff?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of David Wenham or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: Stiff
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Stiff Parents Guide & Age Rating
2004 AdvisoryWondering about Stiff age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Stiff is 93 minutes (1h 33m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.2/10, and global performance metrics, Stiff is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2004 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stiff worth watching?
Stiff is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Stiff parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Stiff identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Stiff?
The total duration of Stiff is 93 minutes, which is approximately 1h 33m long.
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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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