Is The Big Turnaround Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Big Turnaround is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Big Turnaround Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1988, The Big Turnaround emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Two trained men, one angry local woman and the local priest take on the local crime lord and his crew of narcotic smugglers and human traffickers in a small town next to the US-Mexico border. Unlike standard genre fare, The Big Turnaround attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Joe Cranston, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Action elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Big Turnaround features a noteworthy lineup led by Luis Latino. Supported by the likes of Rick Le Fever and Ty Randolph, 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. However, the sheer charisma of Luis Latino, Rick Le Fever, Ty Randolph manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 1988 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Action, Thriller space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, The Big Turnaround is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of The Big Turnaround follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 98 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, The Big Turnaround resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Action landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 3.5/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, The Big Turnaround is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into nature of power. Two trained men, one angry local woman and the local priest take on the local crime lord and his crew of narcotic smugglers and human traffickers in a small town next to the US-Mexico border.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of The Big Turnaround (1988) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 3.5/10 and strong performance metrics in the Action, Thriller categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Luis Latino, Rick Le Fever, Ty Randolph or the visual majesty of its technical execution, The Big Turnaround is a significant contribution to the cinema of 1988. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Big Turnaround has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Action, Thriller), viewers should expect violence, action sequences, mature themes.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.5/10, and global collection metrics, The Big Turnaround stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1988 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Big Turnaround movie hit or flop?
The Big Turnaround is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.5/10 and lower collections.
Is The Big Turnaround worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.5/10, The Big Turnaround may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Big Turnaround online?
The Big Turnaround may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
Synopsis
Two trained men, one angry local woman and the local priest take on the local crime lord and his crew of narcotic smugglers and human traffickers in a small town next to the US-Mexico border.