The Score
Performance & Direction: The Score Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Score (2001) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Score features a noteworthy lineup led by Robert De Niro . Supported by the likes of Edward Norton and Marlon Brando , 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 Score
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2001, The Score is a Action, Crime, Thriller, Mystery, Drama film directed by Frank Oz. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Robert De Niro.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Frank Oz establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. An aging thief hopes to retire and live off his ill-gotten wealth when a young kid convinces him into doing one last heist. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Robert De Niro, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Robert De Niro's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: The Score
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Frank Oz, The Score concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Robert De Niro, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Score reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Score Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Score incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, crime, thriller, mystery, drama film directed by Frank Oz, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Robert De Niro'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 Score adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Score?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Robert De Niro or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: The Score
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $68.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $113.6M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
The Score Budget
The estimated production budget for The Score is $68.0M. 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 Score
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Score Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoThe Score Parents Guide & Age Rating
2001 AdvisoryWondering about The Score age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Score is 124 minutes (2h 4m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.7/10, and global performance metrics, The Score is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2001 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Score worth watching?
The Score is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.7/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Score parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Score identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Score?
The total duration of The Score is 124 minutes, which is approximately 2h 4m long.
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How The Score Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for The Score
A go-to for a solid heist-thriller that features two great performances by De Niro and Norton with honorable mention to Brando who looked a little worse for wear. Not the top notch in the genre but still a breezy but still suspense-filled watch if you don't want anything thought-provoking. Still makes me chuckle that it was Frank Oz to be the one to direct three generations of great actors... **3.75/5**
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.
