The Number 23
Performance & Direction: The Number 23 Review
Last updated: February 25, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Number 23 (2007) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.4/10. 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 Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Number 23 features a noteworthy lineup led by Jim Carrey . Supported by the likes of Virginia Madsen and Logan Lerman , 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 Number 23
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2007, The Number 23 is a Thriller, Mystery, Crime film directed by Joel Schumacher. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jim Carrey.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. Animal control officer Walter Sparrow becomes obsessed with a novel that he believes was written about him, as more and more similarities between himself and his literary alter ego seem to arise. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside Jim Carrey. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that will drive the narrative forward.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Jim Carrey's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Ending Explained: The Number 23
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Joel Schumacher, The Number 23 concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Jim Carrey, 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Number 23 reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Number 23 Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Number 23 incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a thriller, mystery, crime film directed by Joel Schumacher, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Jim Carrey'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 Number 23 adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Number 23?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jim Carrey or the director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Box Office Collection: The Number 23
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $30.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $77.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Number 23 Budget
The estimated production budget for The Number 23 is $30.0M. 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 Number 23
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Number 23 Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV Store
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TV StoreThe Number 23 Parents Guide & Age Rating
2007 AdvisoryWondering about The Number 23 age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Number 23 is 97 minutes (1h 37m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, The Number 23 is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2007 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Number 23 worth watching?
The Number 23 is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.4/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Number 23 parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Number 23 identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Number 23?
The total duration of The Number 23 is 97 minutes, which is approximately 1h 37m long.
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Critic Reviews for The Number 23
Very dark mystery-drama at a time (IIRC) Jim Carrey moved to doing more drama based movies. I had seen this one before probably back in 2007 but don't remember a whole lot. It's an okay film and Carrey for his part was fine, however Virginia Madsen was smoking hot. The movie did at least keep my attention until the end but not sure I'd revisit again. **3.0/5**
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.
