When the Lights Went Out
When the Lights Went Out Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Movie Overview: When the Lights Went Out
| Movie | When the Lights Went Out |
| Release Year | 2012 |
| Director | Pat Holden |
| Genre | Thriller / Drama / Horror |
| Runtime | 86 minutes (1h 26m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is When the Lights Went Out (2012) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in When the Lights Went Out are led by Steven Waddington . The supporting cast, including Kate Ashfield and Jo Hartley , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While When the Lights Went Out does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Thriller films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, When the Lights Went Out 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 Thriller fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: When the Lights Went Out
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2012, When the Lights Went Out is a Thriller, Drama, Horror film directed by Pat Holden, written by Pat Holden. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Steven Waddington as Len.
Ending Explained: When the Lights Went Out
When the Lights Went Out Ending Explained: Yorkshire, 1974, the Maynard family moves into their dream house. Directed by Pat Holden, this 2012 thriller film stars Steven Waddington (Len), alongside Kate Ashfield as Jenny, Jo Hartley as Jeanette, Tasha Connor as Sally. Rated 5.7/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of When the Lights Went Out?
Yorkshire, 1974, the Maynard family moves into their dream house. It's a dream that quickly descends into a panic stricken nightmare as the family discovers a horrifying truth, a truth that will make the history books. The house is already occupied by the most violent poltergeist ever documented, a poltergeist that will tear you from your bed as you sleep and drag you helplessly into the darkness.
Pat Holden's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Steven Waddington (Len)'s journey. It's a dream that quickly descends into a panic stricken nightmare as the family discovers a horrifying truth, a truth that will make the history books.
How Does Steven Waddington (Len)'s Story End?
- Steven Waddington: Steven Waddington's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Kate Ashfield (Jenny): Kate Ashfield's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Jo Hartley (Jeanette): Jo Hartley's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of When the Lights Went Out Mean?
The ending of When the Lights Went Out brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Steven Waddington's story may not satisfy all audiences.
When the Lights Went Out Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is When the Lights Went Out Based on a True Story?
No, When the Lights Went Out is a work of fiction. While the thriller, drama, horror film directed by Pat Holden and starring Steven Waddington may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch When the Lights Went Out?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 86 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Box Office Collection: When the Lights Went Out
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $1.2M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Where to Watch When the Lights Went Out Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreWhen the Lights Went Out Parents Guide & Age Rating
2012 AdvisoryWondering about When the Lights Went Out age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of When the Lights Went Out (2012) is 86 minutes (1h 26m). Directed by Pat Holden, the film runs for 86 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.7/10, and global performance metrics, When the Lights Went Out is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2012 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is When the Lights Went Out worth watching?
When the Lights Went Out is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 5.7/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find When the Lights Went Out parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for When the Lights Went Out identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of When the Lights Went Out (2012)?
The runtime of When the Lights Went Out (2012) is 86 minutes (approximately 1h 26m).
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.
