Is The Long, Hot Summer Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Long, Hot Summer is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 115 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Long, Hot Summer Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1958, The Long, Hot Summer enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Accused barn burner and conman Ben Quick arrives in a small Mississippi town and quickly ingratiates himself with its richest family, the Varners. Under the direction of Martin Ritt, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Paul Newman. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Long, Hot Summer 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 Long, Hot Summer 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 Long, Hot Summer is available for streaming on FlixFling. 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 Long, Hot Summer centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Accused barn burner and conman Ben Quick arrives in a small Mississippi town and quickly ingratiates himself with its richest family, the Varners. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1958 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Long, Hot Summer 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 Long, Hot Summer sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Long, Hot Summer (1958): with an audience rating of 7/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch The Long, Hot Summer Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
FlixFling🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At HomeFlixFling🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeFlixFlingParents Guide & Age Rating
The Long, Hot Summer is rated NR.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7/10, and global collection metrics, The Long, Hot Summer stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1958 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Long, Hot Summer movie hit or flop?
The Long, Hot Summer is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is The Long, Hot Summer worth watching?
Yes, The Long, Hot Summer is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
Where can I watch The Long, Hot Summer online?
The Long, Hot Summer is currently available for streaming on FlixFling. You can also check for it on platforms like FlixFling depending on your region.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Paul Newman
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Long, Hot Summer movie hit or flop?
The Long, Hot Summer is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is The Long, Hot Summer worth watching?
Yes, The Long, Hot Summer is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
Where can I watch The Long, Hot Summer online?
The Long, Hot Summer is currently available for streaming on FlixFling. You can also check for it on platforms like FlixFling depending on your region.
What is the story of The Long, Hot Summer?
The Long, Hot Summer is a Drama movie that follows: Accused barn burner and conman Ben Quick arrives in a small Mississippi town and quickly ingratiates himself with its richest family, the Varners....
Is The Long, Hot Summer family friendly?
The Long, Hot Summer is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is The Long, Hot Summer available in?
The Long, Hot Summer is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Accused barn burner and conman Ben Quick arrives in a small Mississippi town and quickly ingratiates himself with its richest family, the Varners.
Critic Reviews
This reminded me a little of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" (1954) with Paul Newman playing the roguish "Quick" who arrives in a small town, dominated by the "Varner" family and quickly tries to ingratiate himself into their wealthy ways. They, indeed the whole town, are dominated by the patriarchal "Will" (Orson Welles) who seems determined that his daughter "Clara" (Joanne Woodward) will marry local dullard "Stewart" (Richard Anderson). She, on the other hand, takes an instant shine to the newcomer and when brother, and general loafer, "Jody" (Anthony Franciosa) starts to feel a little threatened by this man who is seemingly of much more interest to his father than he is, things start to become a little tense around the place - to say the least. It's a small point, but the audio from Welles isn't the best and sometimes its quite difficult to make out what he's saying, but as the family dynamic becomes more strained and the backstory fills in a tale of a group of people for whom it's really only money that has become the thing that matters now - we end up with a characterful study of avarice and ambition tempered with some dark humour and an increasingly engaging effort from Welles and a smouldering - if maybe a little too predictable - chemistry from Woodward and Newman. It can be a bit wordy at times, but Martin Ritt keeps the pace even and taut as these folks evolve before us. It's not as intense as it might be, but it's still an easy two hours looking at the less salubrious side of human nature.