Performance & Direction: When the Clock Strikes Review
Last updated: February 28, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is When the Clock Strikes (1961) 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 Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and When the Clock Strikes features a noteworthy lineup led by James Brown . Supported by the likes of Merry Anders and Henry Corden , 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: When the Clock Strikes
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1961, When the Clock Strikes is a Drama film directed by Edward L. Cahn. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving James Brown.
Ending Explained: When the Clock Strikes
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Edward L. Cahn, When the Clock Strikes concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving James Brown, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of When the Clock Strikes reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch When the Clock Strikes?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of James Brown or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Top Cast: When the Clock Strikes
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Where to Watch When the Clock Strikes Online?
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ScreenPix Amazon Channel When the Clock Strikes Parents Guide & Age Rating
1961 AdvisoryWondering about When the Clock Strikes age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of When the Clock Strikes is 72 minutes (1h 12m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, When the Clock Strikes is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1961 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is When the Clock Strikes worth watching?
When the Clock Strikes is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama 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 When the Clock Strikes parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for When the Clock Strikes identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of When the Clock Strikes?
The total duration of When the Clock Strikes is 72 minutes, which is approximately 1h 12m 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.









