Things Change
Performance & Direction: Things Change Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Things Change (1988) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Comedy.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Things Change features a noteworthy lineup led by Don Ameche . Supported by the likes of Joe Mantegna and Robert Prosky , 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: Things Change
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1988, Things Change is a Comedy, Crime, Drama film directed by David Mamet. The narrative brings laughter through sharp writing and comedic timing, providing amusement while touching on deeper societal themes. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Don Ameche.
Ending Explained: Things Change
Ending Breakdown: Directed by David Mamet, Things Change concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to comedy resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Don Ameche, 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 comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Things Change reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Things Change Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Things Change incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a comedy, crime, drama film directed by David Mamet, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Don Ameche'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, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Things Change adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Things Change?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Comedy films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Don Ameche or the director
- Want some laughs and light entertainment
Top Cast: Things Change
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Where to Watch Things Change Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoThings Change Parents Guide & Age Rating
1988 AdvisoryWondering about Things Change age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Things Change is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.1/10, and global performance metrics, Things Change is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1988 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Things Change worth watching?
Things Change is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies. It has a verified rating of 6.1/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Things Change parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Things Change identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Things Change?
The total duration of Things Change is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m long.
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movieMx Verified
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.
