The Escape Artist (1982) movie backdrop
The Escape Artist (1982) movie poster
198294 minComedy, Crime, Drama

The Escape Artist

The Escape Artist Movie Hit or Flop?

FLOP

Verdict:The Escape Artist is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.2/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy, Crime, Drama genre.

Is The Escape Artist Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, The Escape Artist is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.

It features a runtime of 94 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.

6.219 votes
94Minutes
1982Release Year
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The Escape Artist Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1982, The Escape Artist enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on The young and self-confident Danny bluffs at the local police-station that he will escape from prison within an hour. Under the direction of Caleb Deschanel, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Raúl Juliá, Griffin O'Neal, Desi Arnaz. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, The Escape Artist 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 Escape Artist resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy 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 January 2026, The Escape Artist is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of The Escape Artist centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. The young and self-confident Danny bluffs at the local police-station that he will escape from prison within an hour. What follows is a flashback showing his childhood with his uncle and aunt, who are 'vaudeville'-artists themselves. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1982 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of The Escape Artist 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 Escape Artist sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for The Escape Artist (1982): with an audience rating of 6.2/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Crime, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

The Escape Artist Box Office Collection

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Worldwide Gross $143,369
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Parents Guide & Age Rating

PG
The Escape Artist is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. It is generally suitable for all ages.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.2/10, and global collection metrics, The Escape Artist stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1982 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Escape Artist movie hit or flop?

The Escape Artist has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is The Escape Artist worth watching?

The Escape Artist is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Crime, Drama movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is The Escape Artist?

The Escape Artist is a Comedy, Crime, Drama movie that The young and self-confident Danny bluffs at the local police-station that he will escape from prison within an hour. What follows is a flashback show...

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.2
The Escape Artist
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/the-escape-artist-57725" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 6.2</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">The Escape Artist</div></div></a>

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More with Raúl Juliá

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is The Escape Artist movie hit or flop?

The Escape Artist has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is The Escape Artist worth watching?

The Escape Artist is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Crime, Drama movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is The Escape Artist?

The Escape Artist is a Comedy, Crime, Drama movie that The young and self-confident Danny bluffs at the local police-station that he will escape from prison within an hour. What follows is a flashback show...

Is The Escape Artist family friendly?

Yes, The Escape Artist is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy, Crime, Drama genre.

Where can I watch The Escape Artist?

You can find streaming options and availability for The Escape Artist on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.

Who is the main cast of The Escape Artist?

The Escape Artist features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.

How long is the movie The Escape Artist?

The runtime and duration of The Escape Artist are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Critic Reviews

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