Performance & Direction: The Returning Review
Last updated: February 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Returning (1983) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 2.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Returning features a noteworthy lineup led by Susan Strasberg . Supported by the likes of Gabriel Walsh and Victor Arnold , 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 Returning
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1983, The Returning is a Horror, Mystery film directed by Joel Bender. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Susan Strasberg.
Ending Explained: The Returning
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Joel Bender, The Returning attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Susan Strasberg, 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Returning reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Returning?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: The Returning
All Cast & Crew →
The Returning Parents Guide & Age Rating
1983 AdvisoryWondering about The Returning age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Returning is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 2.8/10, and global performance metrics, The Returning is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1983 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Returning worth watching?
The Returning is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 2.8/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Returning parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Returning identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Returning?
The total duration of The Returning is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.
How The Returning Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for The Returning
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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.
