The International
Performance & Direction: The International Review
Last updated: February 19, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The International (2009) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and The International features a noteworthy lineup led by Clive Owen . Supported by the likes of Naomi Watts and Armin Mueller-Stahl , 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.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The International
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2009, The International is a Action, Thriller, Crime, Mystery film directed by Tom Tykwer. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Clive Owen.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Tom Tykwer establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. An interpol agent and an attorney are determined to bring one of the world's most powerful banks to justice. Uncovering money laundering, arms trading, and conspiracy to destabilize world governments, their investigation takes them from Berlin, Milan, New York and Istanbul. Finding themselves in a chase across the globe, their relentless tenacity puts their own lives at risk. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Clive Owen, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Clive Owen's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: The International
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Tom Tykwer, The International concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Clive Owen, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The International reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The International Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The International incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, thriller, crime, mystery film directed by Tom Tykwer, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Clive Owen's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: The International adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The International?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Clive Owen or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: The International
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $50.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $60.2M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The International Budget
The estimated production budget for The International is $50.0M. 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.
Top Cast: The International
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The International Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
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Apple TV StoreThe International Parents Guide & Age Rating
2009 AdvisoryWondering about The International age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The International is 118 minutes (1h 58m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.3/10, and global performance metrics, The International is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2009 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The International worth watching?
The International is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.3/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The International parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The International identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The International?
The total duration of The International is 118 minutes, which is approximately 1h 58m long.
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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.
