Is The Motive Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Motive is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 160 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Motive Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2004, The Motive enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on Four people are discovered brutally murdered in an up-scale high-rise apartment. Under the direction of Nobuhiko Obayashi, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Takehiro Murata, Ryo Kase, Toshie Negishi. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, The Motive offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, though the pacing during its 160-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, The Motive is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 6.4/10, the reception has been divisive. For fans of Crime, Drama, Mystery, TV Movie, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of The Motive
- Takehiro Murata – Ishikawa, Police
- Ryo Kase – Yuji Yashiro
- Toshie Negishi – Satoko Sunagawa
- Saki Terashima – Nobuko Katakura
- Takuro Atsuki – Takahiro Koito
Top Highlights
Takehiro MurataIshikawa, Police
Ryo KaseYuji Yashiro
Toshie NegishiSatoko Sunagawa
Saki TerashimaNobuko Katakura
Takuro AtsukiTakahiro Koito
Wakaba Irie
Ittoku KishibeCaretaker
Tokie HidariToshiko Takarai
Kyūsaku Shimada
Shin'ya OhwadaYoshio Sato
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, The Motive stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2004 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Motive movie hit or flop?
The Motive has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Motive worth watching?
The Motive is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, Mystery movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Motive?
The Motive is a Crime, Drama, Mystery movie that Four people are discovered brutally murdered in an up-scale high-rise apartment. All the victims appear to be family, but as the investigation deepens...
