Is That'll Be The Day Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, That'll Be The Day is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Music movies.
It features a runtime of 87 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
That'll Be The Day Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1973, That'll Be The Day enters the Music genre with a narrative focused on Britain, 1958. Under the direction of Claude Whatham, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from David Essex, Ringo Starr, James Booth. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, That'll Be The Day 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, That'll Be The Day resonates with current cultural themes in the Music 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, That'll Be The Day 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 That'll Be The Day centers on a unique premise within the Music landscape. Britain, 1958. Restless at school and bored with his life, Jim leaves home to take a series of low-level jobs at a seaside amusement park, where he discovers a world of cheap sex and petty crime. But when that world comes to a shockingly brutal end, Jim returns home. As the local music scene explodes, Jim must decide between a life of adult responsibility or a new phenomenon called rock & roll. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1973 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of That'll Be The Day 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 That'll Be The Day sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for That'll Be The Day (1973): with an audience rating of 6.2/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Music, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
That'll Be The Day has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.2/10, and global collection metrics, That'll Be The Day stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1973 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is That'll Be The Day movie hit or flop?
That'll Be The Day has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is That'll Be The Day worth watching?
That'll Be The Day is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Music, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is That'll Be The Day?
That'll Be The Day is a Music, Drama movie that Britain, 1958. Restless at school and bored with his life, Jim leaves home to take a series of low-level jobs at a seaside amusement park, where he di...
Explore More Verdicts
More with David Essex
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is That'll Be The Day movie hit or flop?
That'll Be The Day has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is That'll Be The Day worth watching?
That'll Be The Day is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Music, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is That'll Be The Day?
That'll Be The Day is a Music, Drama movie that Britain, 1958. Restless at school and bored with his life, Jim leaves home to take a series of low-level jobs at a seaside amusement park, where he di...
Is That'll Be The Day family friendly?
That'll Be The Day is a Music, Drama movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.
Where can I watch That'll Be The Day?
You can find streaming options and availability for That'll Be The Day on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of That'll Be The Day?
That'll Be The Day 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 That'll Be The Day?
The runtime and duration of That'll Be The Day are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
The road to stardom(dust) begins here. That'll Be the Day is directed by Claude Whatham and written by Ray Connolly. It stars David Essex, Ringo Starr, Rosemary Leach, Rosalind Ayres and Robert Lindsay. Cinematography is by Peter Suschitzky. It's 1958 Britain and Jim MacLaine (Essex), fed up with school and his home life, leaves home and takes a series of dead-end jobs and is introduced to crime and sex. Even this isn't enough to off set his feeling of a hum-drum existence, could the upcoming Rock "N" Roll boom be his saviour?. With perfect cast decisions, including rock star cameo's, a top grade music soundtrack - and director Whatham having a brilliant sense of teenage life in late 50s Britain, there's plenty to enjoy here. Said to be based on the early life of John Lennon, it's important to note that this is actually not a rock movie. This is more of a kitchen sinker than anything else, which is ok of course, just be prepared if you haven't seen it before. 6.5/10
'Jim MacLaine" (David Essex) is a restless teenager in 1950s Britain. He leaves home and best friend "Terry" (Robert Lindsay) and gets a cheap room at a seaside resort when he makes a living renting out deck chairs - not the most fulfilling job as the rain pours down! He's quite a bright lad, though, and despite his increasing penchant for one-night-stands, he realises that he must sort out his future - and with a bit of help from new-found friend "Mike" (Ringo Starr) a career in music becomes his goal. It's not very realistic, no - serendipity plays an unlikely hand all too often as this young man manages to swim against the tide of mediocrity just a little too successfully, but as a piece of social commentary set against a backdrop of limited post-war opportunities for young folk it has some resonance, Essex is an handsome man and plays the cheeky, troubled, character well and, of course, we get to see Mr. Starr's posterior tattoo! This film is not great, indeed it's not really very good - but it moves along well enough and features a soundtrack that gets your toes tapping too.