The Rib Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Movie Overview: The Rib
| Movie | The Rib |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| Director | Zhang Wei |
| Genre | |
| Runtime | 85 minutes (1h 25m) |
| Language | ZH |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Rib (2018) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 1.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this movie.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Rib are led by Hao Meng . The supporting cast, including Gao Deng and Weijie Yuan , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Rib does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy movie films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Rib has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the movie fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Rib
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2018, The Rib is a film directed by Zhang Wei. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Hao Meng.
Ending Explained: The Rib
The Rib Ending Explained: 32-year-old designer Huanyu knows he is a woman born as a man and has a support system of transgender friends, doctors and his straight best friend/roommate. Directed by Zhang Wei, this 2018 story film stars Hao Meng, alongside Gao Deng, Weijie Yuan, Huang Jingyi. Rated 1/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Rib?
32-year-old designer Huanyu knows he is a woman born as a man and has a support system of transgender friends, doctors and his straight best friend/roommate. However sex reassignment surgery legally requires parental approval and Huanyu's pious Christian father sees this as a deadly sin.
Zhang Wei's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Hao Meng's journey. However sex reassignment surgery legally requires parental approval and Huanyu's pious Christian father sees this as a deadly sin.
How Does Hao Meng's Story End?
- Hao Meng: Hao Meng's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Gao Deng: Gao Deng's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Weijie Yuan: Weijie Yuan's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Rib Mean?
The ending of The Rib brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Hao Meng's story may not satisfy all audiences.
The Rib Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Rib Based on a True Story?
No, The Rib is a work of fiction. While the dramatic film directed by Zhang Wei and starring Hao Meng may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch The Rib?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 85 minutes, it's a quick watch.
The Rib Parents Guide & Age Rating
2018 AdvisoryWondering about The Rib age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Rib (2018) is 85 minutes (1h 25m). Directed by Zhang Wei, the film runs for 85 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 1.0/10, and global performance metrics, The Rib is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 2018 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Rib worth watching?
The Rib is definitely worth watching if you enjoy undefined movies. It has a verified rating of 1/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Rib parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Rib identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Rib (2018)?
The runtime of The Rib (2018) is 85 minutes (approximately 1h 25m).
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.


