Performance & Direction: The Octopus Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Octopus (1998) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. 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 Octopus features a noteworthy lineup led by Jean-Pierre Darroussin . Supported by the likes of Clotilde Courau and Julien Rassam , 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 Octopus
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1998, The Octopus is a Thriller, Comedy, Crime film directed by Guillaume Nicloux. 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 Jean-Pierre Darroussin.
Ending Explained: The Octopus
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Guillaume Nicloux, The Octopus 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 Jean-Pierre Darroussin, 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 Octopus reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Octopus Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Octopus incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a thriller, comedy, crime film directed by Guillaume Nicloux, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Jean-Pierre Darroussin'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 Octopus adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Octopus?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jean-Pierre Darroussin or the director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Top Cast: The Octopus
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Octopus Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
NetflixThe Octopus Parents Guide & Age Rating
1998 AdvisoryWondering about The Octopus age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Octopus is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.5/10, and global performance metrics, The Octopus is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1998 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Octopus worth watching?
The Octopus is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Octopus parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Octopus identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Octopus?
The total duration of The Octopus is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked The Octopus
How The Octopus Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for The Octopus
No reviews found for this filter.
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.
