The Shanghai Spell Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Movie Overview: The Shanghai Spell
| Movie | The Shanghai Spell |
| Release Year | 2002 |
| Director | Fernando Trueba |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 119 minutes (1h 59m) |
| Language | ES |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Shanghai Spell (2002) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Shanghai Spell are led by Fernando Tielve . The supporting cast, including Aida Folch and Ariadna Gil , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Shanghai Spell does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Shanghai Spell 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 Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Shanghai Spell
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2002, The Shanghai Spell is a Drama film directed by Fernando Trueba, written by Fernando Trueba. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Fernando Tielve as Dani.
Ending Explained: The Shanghai Spell
The Shanghai Spell Ending Explained: A fourteen year old lad discovers his first love at the point of his pencil whilst drawing the portrait of a sickly but coquettish fifteen year old girl. Directed by Fernando Trueba, this 2002 drama film stars Fernando Tielve (Dani), alongside Aida Folch as Susana, Ariadna Gil as Anita / Chen, Fernando Fernán Gómez as Capt. Bay. Rated 5.8/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Shanghai Spell?
A fourteen year old lad discovers his first love at the point of his pencil whilst drawing the portrait of a sickly but coquettish fifteen year old girl. In the neighbourhood an old freedom-fighter pits himself against bad types, a pretty cinema-ticket girl takes to the streets at night and a young anarchist dedicates himself to telling tall stories. Far away, in Shanghai, a hero of the Republic meets a beautiful femme fatal with oriental eyes. Reality and fiction become fused in an embrace.
Fernando Trueba's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Fernando Tielve (Dani)'s journey. In the neighbourhood an old freedom-fighter pits himself against bad types, a pretty cinema-ticket girl takes to the streets at night and a young anarchist dedicates himself to telling tall stories.
How Does Fernando Tielve (Dani)'s Story End?
- Fernando Tielve: Fernando Tielve's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Aida Folch (Susana): Aida Folch's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Ariadna Gil (Anita / Chen): Ariadna Gil's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Shanghai Spell Mean?
The ending of The Shanghai Spell brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Fernando Tielve's story may not satisfy all audiences.
The Shanghai Spell Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Shanghai Spell Based on a True Story?
No, The Shanghai Spell is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Fernando Trueba and starring Fernando Tielve may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch The Shanghai Spell?
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
Where to Watch The Shanghai Spell Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
FlixOléThe Shanghai Spell Parents Guide & Age Rating
2002 AdvisoryWondering about The Shanghai Spell age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Shanghai Spell (2002) is 119 minutes (1h 59m). Directed by Fernando Trueba, the film runs for 119 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.8/10, and global performance metrics, The Shanghai Spell is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2002 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Shanghai Spell worth watching?
The Shanghai Spell is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.8/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Shanghai Spell parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Shanghai Spell identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Shanghai Spell (2002)?
The runtime of The Shanghai Spell (2002) is 119 minutes (approximately 1h 59m).
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.
