Is The 500 Pound Jerk Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The 500 Pound Jerk is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 73 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The 500 Pound Jerk Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1973, The 500 Pound Jerk enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on An advertising man's dream of turning a huge hillbilly into an Olympic weightlifting champion is set back when the hillbilly falls for a Russian gymnast. Under the direction of William Kronick, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from James Franciscus, Alex Karras, Hope Lange. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The 500 Pound Jerk 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, The 500 Pound Jerk resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy 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, The 500 Pound Jerk 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 The 500 Pound Jerk centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. An advertising man's dream of turning a huge hillbilly into an Olympic weightlifting champion is set back when the hillbilly falls for a Russian gymnast. 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 The 500 Pound Jerk 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 The 500 Pound Jerk sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The 500 Pound Jerk (1973): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Drama, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The 500 Pound Jerk has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, The 500 Pound Jerk stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1973 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 500 Pound Jerk movie hit or flop?
The 500 Pound Jerk is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The 500 Pound Jerk worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The 500 Pound Jerk may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The 500 Pound Jerk?
The 500 Pound Jerk is a Comedy, Drama, TV Movie movie that An advertising man's dream of turning a huge hillbilly into an Olympic weightlifting champion is set back when the hillbilly falls for a Russian gymna...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The 500 Pound Jerk movie hit or flop?
The 500 Pound Jerk is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The 500 Pound Jerk worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The 500 Pound Jerk may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The 500 Pound Jerk?
The 500 Pound Jerk is a Comedy, Drama, TV Movie movie that An advertising man's dream of turning a huge hillbilly into an Olympic weightlifting champion is set back when the hillbilly falls for a Russian gymna...
Is The 500 Pound Jerk family friendly?
Yes, The 500 Pound Jerk is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy, Drama, TV Movie genre.
Where can I watch The 500 Pound Jerk?
You can find streaming options and availability for The 500 Pound Jerk on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The 500 Pound Jerk?
The 500 Pound Jerk 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 The 500 Pound Jerk?
The runtime and duration of The 500 Pound Jerk 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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