Is Backfire Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Backfire is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 93 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Backfire Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1988, Backfire emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Drama, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Mara McAndrew's marriage is falling apart. Unlike standard genre fare, Backfire attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Backfire features a noteworthy lineup led by Karen Allen . Supported by the likes of Keith Carradine and Jeff Fahey , 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 Backfire (1988) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Backfire Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Backfire is a Thriller, Drama, Mystery film that builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Backfire Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Backfire attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Backfire reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Backfire?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Backfire
- Karen Allen – Mara McAndrew
- Keith Carradine – Reed
- Jeff Fahey – Donnie McAndrew
- Bernie Casey – Clinton James
- Dean Paul Martin – Jake
Top Highlights
Karen AllenMara McAndrew
Keith CarradineReed
Jeff FaheyDonnie McAndrew
Bernie CaseyClinton James
Dean Paul MartinJake
Virginia CapersMaxine
Philip SterlingDr. Creason
Dinah ManoffJill
Frances FlanaganClaire
Antony HollandJudge Hardin
Where to Watch Backfire Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Filmin
Amazon Prime Video with Ads🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
Backfire is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, Backfire stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1988 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Backfire movie hit or flop?
Backfire is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is Backfire worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, Backfire may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Backfire online?
Backfire is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Filmin, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.
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Critic Reviews for Backfire
"Backfire" is an exceedingly strong film from the very beginning and it easily leads the viewer astray on many occasions, especially after Mara is forced into the position where she must return home with Donny following his presumably failed suicide attempt - he has stipulated in some legal paperwork she will have power of attorney should he ever become incapacitated - and she must subsequently contend with the intrusive interference of Donny's sister Jill. This development narrows and sharpens the focus of the entire film and the true architect of everything which has been happening neatly harks back to the frequent visual references to Donny's traumas in Vietnam. The pace has also been tightly wrought throughout to achieve maximum effectiveness and potential and it continually manages to shatter expectations and anticipations to create an extremely poignant and memorable portrait of true friendship.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
