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Expert Review & Ratings

See our full critical analysis and audience score for The Beginner.

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WORTH WATCHING: MIXED
Editorial Verified

Is The Beginner Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1985)

Movie fan Mike has invented a machine with which he is able to take part in every movie which is currently running on his video tape recorder. But he and his friend Tommy are watch...

✨ The Quick Verdict

ONE-TIME WATCH

If you are a fan of Comedy cinema, then The Beginner offers a standard experience that justifies its existence in the 1985 landscape.

👥 Target Audience

Fans of Comedy films
casual viewers seeking light entertainment

📔 Detailed Analysis

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of The Beginner (1985), audiences are invited back into the world of Comedy. 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. "Movie fan Mike has invented a machine with which he is able to take part in every movie which is currently running on his video tape recorder. But he and his friend Tommy are watched while trying out this new device and soon two electronic companies are on their trail to discover the secret of this invention."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Thomas Gottschalk does well with the material given, though the script occasionally limits their range. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Comedy. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is The Beginner worth your time? If you appreciate Comedy films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, The Beginner is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 100 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.

⏳ Time Investment

100MIN

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