Is The Three Kings Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Three Kings is likely a skip if you enjoy Family movies.
It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Three Kings Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1987, The Three Kings enters the Family genre with a narrative focused on The made-for-TV film stars Jack Warden, Lou Diamond Phillips and Stan Shaw as three patients in a Los Angeles-area mental institution. Under the direction of Mel Damski, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Tiana Alexandra. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Three Kings 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 Three Kings resonates with current cultural themes in the Family 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 Three Kings 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 Three Kings centers on a unique premise within the Family landscape. The made-for-TV film stars Jack Warden, Lou Diamond Phillips and Stan Shaw as three patients in a Los Angeles-area mental institution. Dressed as the Three Wise Men for a Christmas pageant, the trio is suddenly struck with the delusion that they are really their Biblical counterparts on a quest to find the Baby Jesus. As TV cameras grind away, the three ersatz Kings surreptitiously ride out of the gates of the asylum—on camels—and into the mean streets of LA. As the story draws to its conclusion, the three escapees find themselves providing a Christmas miracle (but not in the form of rap) for a group of homeless people on the outskirts of the city. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1987 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Three Kings 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 Three Kings sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Three Kings (1987): with an audience rating of 2.8/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Family, Fantasy, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Three Kings has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 2.8/10, and global collection metrics, The Three Kings stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1987 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Three Kings movie hit or flop?
The Three Kings is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 2.8/10 and lower collections.
Is The Three Kings worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 2.8/10, The Three Kings may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Three Kings online?
The Three Kings 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 Three Kings movie hit or flop?
The Three Kings is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 2.8/10 and lower collections.
Is The Three Kings worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 2.8/10, The Three Kings may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Three Kings online?
The Three Kings 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 Three Kings?
The Three Kings is a Family, Fantasy, Drama movie that follows: The made-for-TV film stars Jack Warden, Lou Diamond Phillips and Stan Shaw as three patients in a Los Angeles-area mental institution. Dressed as the Three Wise Men for a Christmas pageant, the trio i...
Is The Three Kings family friendly?
Yes, The Three Kings is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Family, Fantasy, Drama movie.
What language is The Three Kings available in?
The Three Kings is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
The made-for-TV film stars Jack Warden, Lou Diamond Phillips and Stan Shaw as three patients in a Los Angeles-area mental institution. Dressed as the Three Wise Men for a Christmas pageant, the trio is suddenly struck with the delusion that they are really their Biblical counterparts on a quest to find the Baby Jesus. As TV cameras grind away, the three ersatz Kings surreptitiously ride out of the gates of the asylum—on camels—and into the mean streets of LA. As the story draws to its conclusion, the three escapees find themselves providing a Christmas miracle (but not in the form of rap) for a group of homeless people on the outskirts of the city.
Critic Reviews
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