The Reckoning
Performance & Direction: The Reckoning Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Reckoning (2004) 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 Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Reckoning features a noteworthy lineup led by Paul Bettany . Supported by the likes of Willem Dafoe and Tom Hardy , 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 Reckoning
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2004, The Reckoning is a Crime, Drama, Mystery film directed by Paul McGuigan. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Paul Bettany.
Ending Explained: The Reckoning
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Paul McGuigan, The Reckoning concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Paul Bettany, 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Reckoning reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Reckoning Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Reckoning incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, mystery film directed by Paul McGuigan, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Paul Bettany'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 Reckoning adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Reckoning?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Paul Bettany or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: The Reckoning
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Reckoning Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeThe Reckoning Parents Guide & Age Rating
2004 AdvisoryWondering about The Reckoning age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Reckoning is 112 minutes (1h 52m). 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 Reckoning is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2004 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Reckoning worth watching?
The Reckoning is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime 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 Reckoning parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Reckoning identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Reckoning?
The total duration of The Reckoning is 112 minutes, which is approximately 1h 52m 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.
