Time at the Top
Time at the Top Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Movie Overview: Time at the Top
| Movie | Time at the Top |
| Release Year | 1999 |
| Director | Jimmy Kaufman |
| Genre | Mystery / Family / Science Fiction / Fantasy / Adventure |
| Runtime | 96 minutes (1h 36m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Time at the Top (1999) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Mystery.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Time at the Top are led by Timothy Busfield . The supporting cast, including Elisha Cuthbert and Gabrielle Boni , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Time at the Top does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Mystery films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Time at the Top has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Mystery fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Time at the Top
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1999, Time at the Top is a Mystery, Family, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure film directed by Jimmy Kaufman, written by Linda Brookover. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Timothy Busfield as Frank Shawson.
Ending Explained: Time at the Top
Time at the Top Ending Explained: 14-year old Susan Shawson travels back in time in her building's elevator. Directed by Jimmy Kaufman, this 1999 mystery film stars Timothy Busfield (Frank Shawson), alongside Elisha Cuthbert as Susan Shawson, Gabrielle Boni as Victoria Walker, Matthew Harbour as Robert Walker. With a 6.4/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Time at the Top?
14-year old Susan Shawson travels back in time in her building's elevator. As altered by a retired physicist living in her building, it transports her from Philadelphia of 1998 back to the same place in 1881. There she meets Victoria Walker, a girl her own age in need of assistance with her own family problems. Gradually discovering the power of her time machine, Susan, Victoria, and her young brother Robert travel back and forth in time and succeed in changing both the past and the future.
Jimmy Kaufman's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Timothy Busfield (Frank Shawson)'s journey. As altered by a retired physicist living in her building, it transports her from Philadelphia of 1998 back to the same place in 1881.
How Does Timothy Busfield (Frank Shawson)'s Story End?
- Timothy Busfield: Timothy Busfield's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Elisha Cuthbert (Susan Shawson): Elisha Cuthbert's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Gabrielle Boni (Victoria Walker): Gabrielle Boni's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Time at the Top Mean?
Time at the Top's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Timothy Busfield may feel rushed. Jimmy Kaufman's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Time at the Top Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Time at the Top Based on a True Story?
No, Time at the Top is a work of fiction. While the mystery, family, science fiction, fantasy, adventure film directed by Jimmy Kaufman and starring Timothy Busfield may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Time at the Top?
Age Advisory: Rated G — suitable for all ages.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Mystery films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Timothy Busfield or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Time at the Top
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $3.2M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Time at the Top Budget
The estimated production budget for Time at the Top is $3.2M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Where to Watch Time at the Top Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
CineverseTime at the Top Parents Guide & Age Rating
1999 AdvisoryWondering about Time at the Top age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Time at the Top (1999) is 96 minutes (1h 36m). Directed by Jimmy Kaufman, the film runs for 96 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, Time at the Top is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1999 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Time at the Top worth watching?
Time at the Top is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Mystery movies. It has a verified rating of 6.4/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Time at the Top parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Time at the Top identifies it as G. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Time at the Top (1999)?
The runtime of Time at the Top (1999) is 96 minutes (approximately 1h 36m).
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.
