Is The Charlatan Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Charlatan is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 63 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Charlatan Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1929, The Charlatan enters the Thriller genre with a narrative focused on A woman goes to a sideshow fortune-teller to have her fortune told, and is astonished when the man looks into his crystal ball and goes into great detail about events in her past that few people ever knew about. Under the direction of George Melford, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Holmes Herbert. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Charlatan 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 Charlatan resonates with current cultural themes in the Thriller 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 Charlatan 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 Charlatan centers on a unique premise within the Thriller landscape. A woman goes to a sideshow fortune-teller to have her fortune told, and is astonished when the man looks into his crystal ball and goes into great detail about events in her past that few people ever knew about. Shaken, she leaves and later tells her girlfriend about the incident. The girlfriend insists that she invite the fortune-teller to a party they're having at her house. What the woman doesn't realize is that the "fortune-teller" is actually the ex-husband she abandoned years ago, when she took their daughter and ran off with her lover. When the "charlatan" is invited to the party, he sees an opportunity to take his revenge on his faithless ex-wife. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1929 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Charlatan 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 Charlatan sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Charlatan (1929): with an audience rating of 3.5/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Thriller cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch The Charlatan Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
The Charlatan has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Thriller), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.5/10, and global collection metrics, The Charlatan stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1929 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Charlatan movie hit or flop?
The Charlatan is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.5/10 and lower collections.
Is The Charlatan worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.5/10, The Charlatan may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Charlatan online?
The Charlatan 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.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Charlatan movie hit or flop?
The Charlatan is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.5/10 and lower collections.
Is The Charlatan worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.5/10, The Charlatan may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Charlatan online?
The Charlatan 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 Charlatan?
The Charlatan is a Thriller movie that follows: A woman goes to a sideshow fortune-teller to have her fortune told, and is astonished when the man looks into his crystal ball and goes into great detail about events in her past that few people ever ...
Is The Charlatan family friendly?
The Charlatan falls under Thriller, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Charlatan available in?
The Charlatan is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
A woman goes to a sideshow fortune-teller to have her fortune told, and is astonished when the man looks into his crystal ball and goes into great detail about events in her past that few people ever knew about. Shaken, she leaves and later tells her girlfriend about the incident. The girlfriend insists that she invite the fortune-teller to a party they're having at her house. What the woman doesn't realize is that the "fortune-teller" is actually the ex-husband she abandoned years ago, when she took their daughter and ran off with her lover. When the "charlatan" is invited to the party, he sees an opportunity to take his revenge on his faithless ex-wife.
Critic Reviews
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