Is The Spider and the Fly Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Spider and the Fly is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 94 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Spider and the Fly Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1949, The Spider and the Fly enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on "The Spider and the Fly is set in Paris during the cloud-cuckoo days before WW I. Under the direction of Robert Hamer, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Eric Portman. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Spider and the Fly offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Spider and the Fly resonates with current cultural themes in the Crime space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, The Spider and the Fly is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Spider and the Fly centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. "The Spider and the Fly is set in Paris during the cloud-cuckoo days before WW I. The storyline intertwines the destinies of three people. Guy Rolfe plays Phillipe de Ledocq, a resourceful safecracker who always manages to elude arrest. Eric Portman is cast as police-chief Maubert, who will not rest until Ledocq is behind bars. And Nadia Gray is Madeleine, the woman beloved by both Ledocq and Maubert. Just as Maubert has managed to capture his man, Ledocq is released at the behest of the government, who wants him to steal secrets from the German embassy revealing the whereabouts of the Kaiser's secret agents. And just how does Madeleine figure into all of this? Spider and the Fly is a diverting precursor to the 1960s TV series It Takes a Thief." ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1949 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Spider and the Fly has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Spider and the Fly sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Spider and the Fly (1949): with an audience rating of 6.8/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Crime, Thriller cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Spider and the Fly has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Crime, Thriller), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, The Spider and the Fly stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1949 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Spider and the Fly movie hit or flop?
The Spider and the Fly has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Spider and the Fly worth watching?
The Spider and the Fly is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Spider and the Fly online?
The Spider and the Fly may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Spider and the Fly movie hit or flop?
The Spider and the Fly has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Spider and the Fly worth watching?
The Spider and the Fly is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Spider and the Fly online?
The Spider and the Fly may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of The Spider and the Fly?
The Spider and the Fly is a Crime, Thriller movie that follows: "The Spider and the Fly is set in Paris during the cloud-cuckoo days before WW I. The storyline intertwines the destinies of three people. Guy Rolfe plays Phillipe de Ledocq, a resourceful safecracker...
Is The Spider and the Fly family friendly?
The Spider and the Fly falls under Crime, Thriller, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Spider and the Fly available in?
The Spider and the Fly is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
"The Spider and the Fly is set in Paris during the cloud-cuckoo days before WW I. The storyline intertwines the destinies of three people. Guy Rolfe plays Phillipe de Ledocq, a resourceful safecracker who always manages to elude arrest. Eric Portman is cast as police-chief Maubert, who will not rest until Ledocq is behind bars. And Nadia Gray is Madeleine, the woman beloved by both Ledocq and Maubert. Just as Maubert has managed to capture his man, Ledocq is released at the behest of the government, who wants him to steal secrets from the German embassy revealing the whereabouts of the Kaiser's secret agents. And just how does Madeleine figure into all of this? Spider and the Fly is a diverting precursor to the 1960s TV series It Takes a Thief." ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
Critic Reviews
Were it not for the the totally wooden efforts of the very tall Guy Rolfe ("Lodocq") this could have been a really good little crime drama. As it is, though, it's still a good story with two distinct parts - the first sees police chief "Maubert" (Eric Portman) trying to apprehend a successful safe-cracker, the second sees him team up with his erstwhile nemesis to work together to thwart the Bosch in France during the early stages of the Great War. Good sharp writing, tensely directed with enjoyable contributions from Nadia Gray ("Madeleine"), Edward Chapman as the no nonsense Interior Minister and a young George Cole as Portman's sergeant sidekick "Marc". It is a little more than just a routine crime caper; it tries to demonstrate that all things being equal even a criminal and a policeman can work together when the fate of their nation is in jeopardy. Robert Hamer manages to keep a sense of fun and jeopardy prevailing for much of this characterful film. A shame Rolfe's talent couldn’t raise to the same heights as his head - but still, a good watch this.