Is The Spiral Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Spiral is likely a skip if you enjoy Science Fiction movies.
It features a runtime of 91 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Spiral Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2018, The Spiral emerges as a significant entry in the Science Fiction, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Jon Caine, a respected lecturer in a university, was found missing. Unlike standard genre fare, The Spiral attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of PF Wong, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Science Fiction elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Spiral features a noteworthy lineup led by Siti Saleha. Supported by the likes of Peter Davis and Ben Andrew Pfeiffer, 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. However, the sheer charisma of Siti Saleha, Peter Davis, Ben Andrew Pfeiffer manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 2018 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Science Fiction, Thriller space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, The Spiral is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of The Spiral follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 91 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, The Spiral resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Science Fiction landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 0/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, The Spiral is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. Jon Caine, a respected lecturer in a university, was found missing. Three months later he resurfaced and massacred a group of civilians and police at a cafe. After being apprehended by Detective Inspector Aleana, he was sent to an asylum to be interrogated by a criminal psychologist, Dr Melanie Surya. Jon was erratic and psychotic, as well as deadly - traits that he didn't have before he went missing. Melanie soon learnt that her very existence is the key to Jon's sudden change of behavior and ultimately, she unlocked the secret that Jon has held inside him.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of The Spiral (2018) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 0/10 and strong performance metrics in the Science Fiction, Thriller categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Siti Saleha, Peter Davis, Ben Andrew Pfeiffer or the visual majesty of its technical execution, The Spiral is a significant contribution to the cinema of 2018. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Where to Watch The Spiral Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
The Spiral has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Science Fiction, Thriller), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, The Spiral stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2018 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Spiral movie hit or flop?
The Spiral is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The Spiral worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The Spiral may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Spiral online?
The Spiral 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.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Siti Saleha
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Spiral movie hit or flop?
The Spiral is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The Spiral worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The Spiral may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Spiral online?
The Spiral 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 Spiral?
The Spiral is a Science Fiction, Thriller movie that follows: Jon Caine, a respected lecturer in a university, was found missing. Three months later he resurfaced and massacred a group of civilians and police at a cafe. After being apprehended by Detective Inspe...
Is The Spiral family friendly?
The Spiral falls under Science Fiction, Thriller, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Spiral available in?
The Spiral is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Jon Caine, a respected lecturer in a university, was found missing. Three months later he resurfaced and massacred a group of civilians and police at a cafe. After being apprehended by Detective Inspector Aleana, he was sent to an asylum to be interrogated by a criminal psychologist, Dr Melanie Surya. Jon was erratic and psychotic, as well as deadly - traits that he didn't have before he went missing. Melanie soon learnt that her very existence is the key to Jon's sudden change of behavior and ultimately, she unlocked the secret that Jon has held inside him.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.