Verdict:The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 4.8/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy, Horror, Crime genre.
Answer: Maybe not, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 108 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1980, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Fu Manchu's 168th birthday celebration is dampened when a hapless flunky spills Fu's age-regressing elixir vitae. Under the direction of Piers Haggard, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Peter Sellers, Helen Mirren, David Tomlinson. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu 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.
Beyond the narrative, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu 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.
As of January 2026, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu 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.
The plot of The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Fu Manchu's 168th birthday celebration is dampened when a hapless flunky spills Fu's age-regressing elixir vitae. Fu sends his lackeys to round up ingredients for a new batch of elixir, starting with the Star of Leningrad diamond, nabbed from a Soviet exhibition in Washington. The FBI sends agents Capone and Williams to England to confer with Nayland Smith, an expert on Fu. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1980 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu 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 Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu (1980): with an audience rating of 4.8/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Horror, Crime cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $10,700,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1980 cinematic year.
The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is a Comedy, Horror, Crime movie that Fu Manchu's 168th birthday celebration is dampened when a hapless flunky spills Fu's age-regressing elixir vitae. Fu sends his lackeys to round up ing...
The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is a Comedy, Horror, Crime movie that Fu Manchu's 168th birthday celebration is dampened when a hapless flunky spills Fu's age-regressing elixir vitae. Fu sends his lackeys to round up ing...
Yes, The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy, Horror, Crime genre.
You can find streaming options and availability for The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
The runtime and duration of The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
No reviews found for this filter.