Performance & Direction: The Unknown Known Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Unknown Known (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Documentary.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Documentary is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Unknown Known features a noteworthy lineup led by Donald Rumsfeld . Supported by the likes of Kenn Medeiros and Errol Morris , 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 Unknown Known
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2013, The Unknown Known is a Documentary, History film directed by Errol Morris. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Donald Rumsfeld.
Ending Explained: The Unknown Known
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Errol Morris, The Unknown Known concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to documentary resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Donald Rumsfeld, 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 documentary themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Unknown Known reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Unknown Known Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Unknown Known draws heavily from documented historical records. As a documentary, history film directed by Errol Morris, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Donald Rumsfeld'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, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: The Unknown Known adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Unknown Known?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Documentaries films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Donald Rumsfeld or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: The Unknown Known
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Where to Watch The Unknown Known Online?
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Amazon VideoGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeThe Unknown Known Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about The Unknown Known age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Unknown Known is 102 minutes (1h 42m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.8/10, and global performance metrics, The Unknown Known is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2013 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Unknown Known worth watching?
The Unknown Known is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies. It has a verified rating of 6.8/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Unknown Known parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Unknown Known identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Unknown Known?
The total duration of The Unknown Known is 102 minutes, which is approximately 1h 42m long.
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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.
