The Independent
The Independent Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Movie Overview: The Independent
| Movie | The Independent |
| Release Year | 2022 |
| Director | Amy Rice |
| Genre | Thriller / Mystery / Crime |
| Runtime | 108 minutes (1h 48m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Independent (2022) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Independent are led by Jodie Turner-Smith . The supporting cast, including Brian Cox and Ali Marsh , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
The Independent stands out as a strong entry in the Thriller genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Thriller narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Independent has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Thriller fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Independent
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2022, The Independent is a Thriller, Mystery, Crime film directed by Amy Rice, written by Evan Parter. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jodie Turner-Smith as Elisha "Eli" James.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. It's the final weeks of the most consequential presidential election in history. America is poised to elect either its first female president or its first viable independent candidate. Reporting history as it's made, an idealistic young journalist teams up with her idol, legendary journalist Nick Booker, to uncover a conspiracy that places the fate of the election, and the country, in their hands. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside Jodie Turner-Smith. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The Independent's opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that Jodie Turner-Smith as Elisha "Eli" James — and the audience — will chase over its 108-minute runtime.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Jodie Turner-Smith's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events. Jodie Turner-Smith's journey provides adequate resolution, with Amy Rice's final reveals tying the threads together.
Ending Explained: The Independent
The Independent Ending Explained: Directed by Amy Rice, The Independent wraps up the main storyline while leaving some interpretation to viewers. The ending highlights the core thriller themes developed throughout the film.
The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving Jodie Turner-Smith. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
- Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the thriller themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of The Independent reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
The Independent Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Independent Based on a True Story?
The Independent draws from real criminal cases and investigative records. As a thriller, mystery, crime film directed by Amy Rice, the production explores how real events can be adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: The Independent uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch The Independent?
Age Advisory: Rated R — not suitable for younger viewers.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jodie Turner-Smith or the director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Where to Watch The Independent Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Peacock Premium🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home
Plex🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeThe Independent Parents Guide & Age Rating
2022 AdvisoryWondering about The Independent age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Independent (2022) is 108 minutes (1h 48m). Directed by Amy Rice, the film runs for 108 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.6/10, and global performance metrics, The Independent is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2022 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Independent worth watching?
The Independent is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.6/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Independent parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Independent identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Independent (2022)?
The runtime of The Independent (2022) is 108 minutes (approximately 1h 48m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
