Is The Wild Duck Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Wild Duck is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 105 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Wild Duck Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1976, The Wild Duck enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Consul Werle holds a reception in honour of the homecoming of his son Gregers. Under the direction of Hans W. Geißendörfer, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Bruno Ganz. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Wild Duck 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 Wild Duck resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama 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 Wild Duck 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 Wild Duck centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Consul Werle holds a reception in honour of the homecoming of his son Gregers. At the reception, Gregers meets his childhood friend, Hjalmar Ekdal, who is married to Gina, a former maid of the Werle family. Hjalmar is unaware that Werle had an affair with Gina and that their 14-year-old daughter Hedwig is not his child. Gregers moves in with the Ekdals with the intention of allowing unsuspecting Hjalmar and his family to share in the "happiness of truth". Hedwig is entirely devoted to a wild duck, which lives on a pond outside their house. When Hjalmar learns the truth about his daughter, he wants to leave his family. Gregers advises Hedwig to kill the wild duck so that her father, impressed by this sacrifice, will return home. On the following day, Hedwig's birthday, she doesn't shoot the duck, but shoots herself instead. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1976 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Wild Duck 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 Wild Duck sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Wild Duck (1976): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Wild Duck has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, The Wild Duck stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1976 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Wild Duck movie hit or flop?
The Wild Duck is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The Wild Duck worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The Wild Duck may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Wild Duck online?
The Wild Duck 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 Wild Duck movie hit or flop?
The Wild Duck is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is The Wild Duck worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, The Wild Duck may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Wild Duck online?
The Wild Duck 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 Wild Duck?
The Wild Duck is a Drama movie that follows: Consul Werle holds a reception in honour of the homecoming of his son Gregers. At the reception, Gregers meets his childhood friend, Hjalmar Ekdal, who is married to Gina, a former maid of the Werle ...
Is The Wild Duck family friendly?
The Wild Duck is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is The Wild Duck available in?
The Wild Duck is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Consul Werle holds a reception in honour of the homecoming of his son Gregers. At the reception, Gregers meets his childhood friend, Hjalmar Ekdal, who is married to Gina, a former maid of the Werle family. Hjalmar is unaware that Werle had an affair with Gina and that their 14-year-old daughter Hedwig is not his child. Gregers moves in with the Ekdals with the intention of allowing unsuspecting Hjalmar and his family to share in the "happiness of truth". Hedwig is entirely devoted to a wild duck, which lives on a pond outside their house. When Hjalmar learns the truth about his daughter, he wants to leave his family. Gregers advises Hedwig to kill the wild duck so that her father, impressed by this sacrifice, will return home. On the following day, Hedwig's birthday, she doesn't shoot the duck, but shoots herself instead.
Critic Reviews
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