Is The Cutlass Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Cutlass is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Cutlass Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2017, The Cutlass emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Inspired by true events, THE CUTLASS is a dramatic thriller set in the tropical wilderness of Trinidad and tells the story of a young woman who falls into the grasp of a dangerous sociopath. Unlike standard genre fare, The Cutlass attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Darisha J. Beresford, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Thriller elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Cutlass features a noteworthy lineup led by Lisa-Bel Hirschmann. Supported by the likes of Arnold Goindhan and Kirk Baltz, 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. However, the sheer charisma of Lisa-Bel Hirschmann, Arnold Goindhan, Kirk Baltz manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 2017 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Thriller, Drama space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, The Cutlass is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of The Cutlass follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 97 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, The Cutlass resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Thriller landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 5.4/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, The Cutlass is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. Inspired by true events, THE CUTLASS is a dramatic thriller set in the tropical wilderness of Trinidad and tells the story of a young woman who falls into the grasp of a dangerous sociopath. She finds herself isolated and musters the courage to emotionally battle the unsettled mind of her abductor.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of The Cutlass (2017) is overwhelmingly divisive. With an audience rating of 5.4/10 and strong performance metrics in the Thriller, Drama categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Lisa-Bel Hirschmann, Arnold Goindhan, Kirk Baltz or the visual majesty of its technical execution, The Cutlass is a significant contribution to the cinema of 2017. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Where to Watch The Cutlass Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
History VaultParents Guide & Age Rating
The Cutlass has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Thriller, Drama), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.4/10, and global collection metrics, The Cutlass stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2017 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Cutlass movie hit or flop?
The Cutlass has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Cutlass worth watching?
The Cutlass is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Thriller, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Cutlass online?
The Cutlass is currently available for streaming on History Vault. You can also check for it on platforms like History Vault depending on your region.
Explore More Verdicts
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Cutlass movie hit or flop?
The Cutlass has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Cutlass worth watching?
The Cutlass is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Thriller, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Cutlass online?
The Cutlass is currently available for streaming on History Vault. You can also check for it on platforms like History Vault depending on your region.
What is the story of The Cutlass?
The Cutlass is a Thriller, Drama movie that follows: Inspired by true events, THE CUTLASS is a dramatic thriller set in the tropical wilderness of Trinidad and tells the story of a young woman who falls into the grasp of a dangerous sociopath. She finds...
Is The Cutlass family friendly?
The Cutlass falls under Thriller, Drama, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Cutlass available in?
The Cutlass is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Inspired by true events, THE CUTLASS is a dramatic thriller set in the tropical wilderness of Trinidad and tells the story of a young woman who falls into the grasp of a dangerous sociopath. She finds herself isolated and musters the courage to emotionally battle the unsettled mind of her abductor.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.