The Contract
Performance & Direction: The Contract Review
Last updated: February 19, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Contract (2006) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Contract features a noteworthy lineup led by Morgan Freeman . Supported by the likes of John Cusack and Alice Krige , 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.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Contract
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2006, The Contract is a Drama, Action, Thriller, Crime film directed by Bruce Beresford. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Morgan Freeman.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Attempting to recover from a recent family trauma by escaping into the woods for a peaceful hiking trip, an ex-lawman and his young son stumble across a dangerous contract killer. The screenplay takes time to develop Morgan Freeman's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: The Contract
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Bruce Beresford, The Contract attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Morgan Freeman, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Contract reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Contract Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Contract incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, action, thriller, crime film directed by Bruce Beresford, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Morgan Freeman's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: The Contract adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Contract?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: The Contract
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $25.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $5.5M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Contract Budget
The estimated production budget for The Contract is $25.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: The Contract
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Contract Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with AdsThe Contract Parents Guide & Age Rating
2006 AdvisoryWondering about The Contract age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Contract is 96 minutes (1h 36m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.7/10, and global performance metrics, The Contract is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2006 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Contract worth watching?
The Contract is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.7/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Contract parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Contract identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Contract?
The total duration of The Contract is 96 minutes, which is approximately 1h 36m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
