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Expert Review & Ratings

See our full critical analysis and audience score for King of New York.

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WORTH WATCHING: MIXED
Editorial Verified

Is King of New York Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1990)

A former drug lord returns from prison determined to wipe out all his competition and distribute the profits of his operations to New York's poor and lower classes in this stylish ...

✨ The Quick Verdict

ONE-TIME WATCH

If you are a fan of Thriller, Crime cinema, then King of New York offers a standard experience that justifies its existence in the 1990 landscape.

👥 Target Audience

Fans of Thriller films
Fans of Crime films

📔 Detailed Analysis

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of King of New York (1990), audiences are invited back into the world of Thriller, Crime. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "A former drug lord returns from prison determined to wipe out all his competition and distribute the profits of his operations to New York's poor and lower classes in this stylish and ultra violent modern twist on Robin Hood."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. While not a career-best, Christopher Walken's presence adds a necessary stability to the proceedings. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Thriller. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is King of New York worth your time? If you appreciate Thriller, Crime films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, King of New York is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 103 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.

⏳ Time Investment

103MIN

At approximately 1.7 hours, the film requires a standard time commitment.