Sylvia (1986) movie backdrop
Sylvia (1986) movie poster
1986100 minDrama

Sylvia

Sylvia Movie Hit or Flop?

HIT

Verdict:Sylvia is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.5/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Drama genre.

Is Sylvia Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, Sylvia is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.

It features a runtime of 100 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

6.51 votes
100Minutes
1986Release Year
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Sylvia Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1986, Sylvia enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on New Zealand chronicle of the life of noted writer and teacher, Sylvia Ashton-Warner. Under the direction of Michael Firth, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Eleanor David, Nigel Terry, Tom Wilkinson. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, Sylvia 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.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, Sylvia resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of January 2026, Sylvia 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.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of Sylvia centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. New Zealand chronicle of the life of noted writer and teacher, Sylvia Ashton-Warner. An interesting look at the unusual teaching methods she used while working with the children from the indigenous Maon. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1986 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of Sylvia 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 Sylvia sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for Sylvia (1986): with an audience rating of 6.5/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Sylvia Box Office Collection

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $1,700,000
Trade Verdict CLEAN HIT

Sylvia Budget

The estimated production budget for Sylvia is $1,700,000. 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.

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
Sylvia has not been officially rated yet.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.5/10, and global collection metrics, Sylvia stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1986 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sylvia movie hit or flop?

Sylvia has received mixed reviews with a 6.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Sylvia worth watching?

Sylvia is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is Sylvia?

Sylvia is a Drama movie that New Zealand chronicle of the life of noted writer and teacher, Sylvia Ashton-Warner. An interesting look at the unusual teaching methods she used whil...

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.5
Sylvia
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/sylvia-294767" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 6.5</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Sylvia</div></div></a>

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is Sylvia movie hit or flop?

Sylvia has received mixed reviews with a 6.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Sylvia worth watching?

Sylvia is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is Sylvia?

Sylvia is a Drama movie that New Zealand chronicle of the life of noted writer and teacher, Sylvia Ashton-Warner. An interesting look at the unusual teaching methods she used whil...

Is Sylvia family friendly?

Sylvia is a Drama movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.

Where can I watch Sylvia?

You can find streaming options and availability for Sylvia on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.

Who is the main cast of Sylvia?

Sylvia features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.

How long is the movie Sylvia?

The runtime and duration of Sylvia are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Critic Reviews

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