Is The Black and Blue Lamp Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Black and Blue Lamp is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 59 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Black and Blue Lamp Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1988, The Black and Blue Lamp enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Satirical and surreal play by Arthur Ellis, dealing with the manner in which the British police force has been represented on TV for four decades. Under the direction of Guy Slater, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Kenneth Cranham. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Black and Blue Lamp 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 Black and Blue Lamp 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 early 2026, The Black and Blue Lamp is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Black and Blue Lamp centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Satirical and surreal play by Arthur Ellis, dealing with the manner in which the British police force has been represented on TV for four decades. In 1949 Tom Riley is arrested for the murder of PC George Dixon. As he awaits interrogation at the station he is mysteriously transported into an episode of The Filth - a 1988 police series where the hard men rule, where he is told by the local CID that he'll be confessing to the murder or else his genitals are getting cut off ! This black comedy questions whether the police have changed or is it the way film and television present them. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1988 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Black and Blue Lamp 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 Black and Blue Lamp sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Black and Blue Lamp (1988): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Comedy, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Black and Blue Lamp has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, The Black and Blue Lamp stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1988 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Black and Blue Lamp movie hit or flop?
The Black and Blue Lamp is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The Black and Blue Lamp worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The Black and Blue Lamp may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Black and Blue Lamp online?
The Black and Blue Lamp 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
More with Kenneth Cranham
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Black and Blue Lamp movie hit or flop?
The Black and Blue Lamp is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The Black and Blue Lamp worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The Black and Blue Lamp may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Black and Blue Lamp online?
The Black and Blue Lamp 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.
What is the story of The Black and Blue Lamp?
The Black and Blue Lamp is a Drama, Comedy, TV Movie movie that follows: Satirical and surreal play by Arthur Ellis, dealing with the manner in which the British police force has been represented on TV for four decades. In 1949 Tom Riley is arrested for the murder of PC Ge...
Is The Black and Blue Lamp family friendly?
Yes, The Black and Blue Lamp is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Drama, Comedy, TV Movie movie.
What language is The Black and Blue Lamp available in?
The Black and Blue Lamp is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Satirical and surreal play by Arthur Ellis, dealing with the manner in which the British police force has been represented on TV for four decades. In 1949 Tom Riley is arrested for the murder of PC George Dixon. As he awaits interrogation at the station he is mysteriously transported into an episode of The Filth - a 1988 police series where the hard men rule, where he is told by the local CID that he'll be confessing to the murder or else his genitals are getting cut off ! This black comedy questions whether the police have changed or is it the way film and television present them.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.