Is The Criminals Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Criminals is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 92 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Criminals Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1976, The Criminals enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on An anthology film featuring three true-crime stories that took place in Hong Kong in the early 1970's. Under the direction of Cheng Kang, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Si Wai. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Criminals 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 Criminals resonates with current cultural themes in the Crime 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 Criminals 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 Criminals centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. An anthology film featuring three true-crime stories that took place in Hong Kong in the early 1970's. Part 1: Hidden Torsos' A woman and her daughter are murdered by her abusive boyfriend. Part 2: 'Valley of the Hanged'-A man murders his wife and her lover. Part 3: 'The Stuntmen' - A gang boss is murdered by his wife's lover The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1976 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Criminals 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 Criminals sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Criminals (1976): with an audience rating of 4.1/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Crime cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Criminals has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Crime), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.1/10, and global collection metrics, The Criminals stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1976 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Criminals movie hit or flop?
The Criminals is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.1/10 and lower collections.
Is The Criminals worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.1/10, The Criminals may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Criminals online?
The Criminals 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 Criminals movie hit or flop?
The Criminals is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.1/10 and lower collections.
Is The Criminals worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.1/10, The Criminals may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Criminals online?
The Criminals 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 Criminals?
The Criminals is a Crime movie that follows: An anthology film featuring three true-crime stories that took place in Hong Kong in the early 1970's. Part 1: Hidden Torsos' A woman and her daughter are murdered by her abusive boyfriend. Part 2: 'V...
Is The Criminals family friendly?
The Criminals falls under Crime, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Criminals available in?
The Criminals is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Part of the The Criminals Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full FranchiseSynopsis
An anthology film featuring three true-crime stories that took place in Hong Kong in the early 1970's. Part 1: Hidden Torsos' A woman and her daughter are murdered by her abusive boyfriend. Part 2: 'Valley of the Hanged'-A man murders his wife and her lover. Part 3: 'The Stuntmen' - A gang boss is murdered by his wife's lover
Critic Reviews
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