Performance & Direction: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad Review
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is A Narcotics Agent's Ballad (1972) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and A Narcotics Agent's Ballad features a noteworthy lineup led by Sonny Chiba . Supported by the likes of Eiko Takehara and Hiroshi Miyauchi , 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?
In summary, our editorial assessment of A Narcotics Agent's Ballad (1972) is generally positive. With an audience rating of 7.0/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad
Quick Plot Summary: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad is a Crime, Thriller film that dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad
Ending Breakdown: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of A Narcotics Agent's Ballad reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
A Narcotics Agent's Ballad Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
A Narcotics Agent's Ballad incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, thriller film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch A Narcotics Agent's Ballad?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: A Narcotics Agent's Ballad
All Cast & Crew →
A Narcotics Agent's Ballad Parents Guide & Age Rating
1972 AdvisoryWondering about A Narcotics Agent's Ballad age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of A Narcotics Agent's Ballad is 83 minutes (1h 23m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.0/10, and global performance metrics, A Narcotics Agent's Ballad is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1972 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Narcotics Agent's Ballad worth watching?
A Narcotics Agent's Ballad is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 7/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find A Narcotics Agent's Ballad parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for A Narcotics Agent's Ballad identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of A Narcotics Agent's Ballad?
The total duration of A Narcotics Agent's Ballad is 83 minutes, which is approximately 1h 23m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked A Narcotics Agent's Ballad
How A Narcotics Agent's Ballad Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for A Narcotics Agent's Ballad
No reviews found for this filter.
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.
