The Criminal Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Movie Overview: The Criminal
| Movie | The Criminal |
| Release Year | 1999 |
| Director | Julian Simpson |
| Genre | Thriller |
| Runtime | 99 minutes (1h 39m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Criminal (1999) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Criminal are led by Steven Mackintosh . The supporting cast, including Bernard Hill and Eddie Izzard , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Criminal does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Thriller films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Criminal has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Thriller fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Criminal
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1999, The Criminal is a Thriller film directed by Julian Simpson. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Steven Mackintosh as Jasper Rawlins.
Ending Explained: The Criminal
The Criminal Ending Explained: Jasper Rawlins, a none-too-successful musician, finds himself chatting with a beautiful woman at his neighborhood bar. Directed by Julian Simpson, this 1999 thriller film stars Steven Mackintosh (Jasper Rawlins), alongside Bernard Hill as Det. Insp. Walker, Eddie Izzard as Peter Hume, Natasha Little as Sarah Maitland. Rated 5.5/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Criminal?
Jasper Rawlins, a none-too-successful musician, finds himself chatting with a beautiful woman at his neighborhood bar. She goes home with him, direct and frank in answer to his nervousness. During the night, someone breaks into his flat and cuts her throat. He runs into the arms of the police, who dismiss his story, but release him while they search for the weapon. He investigates the crime, and over the next few days, meets a knowing pornographer, hit men, and other schemers. As dead bodies pile up wherever he goes, the police are soon looking for him with guns drawn. As he discovers secrets about a shadowy corporation, the police close in. Can he find someone to trust?
Julian Simpson's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Steven Mackintosh (Jasper Rawlins)'s journey. She goes home with him, direct and frank in answer to his nervousness.
How Does Steven Mackintosh (Jasper Rawlins)'s Story End?
- Steven Mackintosh: Steven Mackintosh's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Bernard Hill (Det. Insp. Walker): Bernard Hill's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Eddie Izzard (Peter Hume): Eddie Izzard's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Criminal Mean?
The ending of The Criminal brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Steven Mackintosh's story may not satisfy all audiences.
The Criminal Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Criminal Based on a True Story?
No, The Criminal is a work of fiction. While the thriller film directed by Julian Simpson and starring Steven Mackintosh may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch The Criminal?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
The Criminal Parents Guide & Age Rating
1999 AdvisoryWondering about The Criminal age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Criminal (1999) is 99 minutes (1h 39m). Directed by Julian Simpson, the film runs for 99 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.5/10, and global performance metrics, The Criminal is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1999 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Criminal worth watching?
The Criminal is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 5.5/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Criminal parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Criminal identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Criminal (1999)?
The runtime of The Criminal (1999) is 99 minutes (approximately 1h 39m).
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.
