Is The Debut Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Debut is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 88 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Debut Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2000, The Debut enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Filipino-American high school student Ben (Dante Basco) works in a comic book shop to earn money to pay his way into Cal Arts. Under the direction of Gene Cajayon, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Dante Basco. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Debut 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 Debut resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama 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 Debut is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. It is also featured on platforms like Amazon Prime Video with Ads. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Debut centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Filipino-American high school student Ben (Dante Basco) works in a comic book shop to earn money to pay his way into Cal Arts. His father, a postman, is determined that his son--who has won a pre-med scholarship to UCLA--will become a doctor. The eighteenth birthday party of Ben's sister, Rose, sets off a comedic and touching series of events and family struggles that will in turn determine young Ben's future. This fresh independent production from Gene Cajayon presents a lighthearted and warm coming-of-age tale filtered through the eyes of an American subculture rarely seen on film. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2000 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Debut 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 Debut sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Debut (2000): with an audience rating of 5.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
The Debut Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $1,000,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Debut Budget
The estimated production budget for The Debut is $1,000,000. 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.
Where to Watch The Debut Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TVFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
The Debut is rated R. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.4/10, and global collection metrics, The Debut stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2000 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Debut movie hit or flop?
The Debut has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Debut worth watching?
The Debut is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Debut online?
The Debut is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Debut movie hit or flop?
The Debut has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Debut worth watching?
The Debut is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Debut online?
The Debut is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.
What is the story of The Debut?
The Debut is a Drama movie that follows: Filipino-American high school student Ben (Dante Basco) works in a comic book shop to earn money to pay his way into Cal Arts. His father, a postman, is determined that his son--who has won a pre-med ...
Is The Debut family friendly?
The Debut is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is The Debut available in?
The Debut is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Filipino-American high school student Ben (Dante Basco) works in a comic book shop to earn money to pay his way into Cal Arts. His father, a postman, is determined that his son--who has won a pre-med scholarship to UCLA--will become a doctor. The eighteenth birthday party of Ben's sister, Rose, sets off a comedic and touching series of events and family struggles that will in turn determine young Ben's future. This fresh independent production from Gene Cajayon presents a lighthearted and warm coming-of-age tale filtered through the eyes of an American subculture rarely seen on film.
Critic Reviews
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