Is Ballast Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Ballast is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Ballast Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2008, Ballast emerges as a significant entry in the Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A single mother and her embattled son struggle to subsist in a small Mississippi Delta township. Unlike standard genre fare, Ballast attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Ballast features a noteworthy lineup led by Micheal J. Smith Sr. . Supported by the likes of JimMyron Ross and Tarra Riggs , 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 Ballast (2008) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.1/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Ballast Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Ballast is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ballast Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Ballast resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Ballast reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Ballast?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Ballast Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $700.0K |
| Worldwide Gross | $81.9K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Ballast Budget
The estimated production budget for Ballast is $700.0K. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Ballast
- Micheal J. Smith Sr. – Lawrence
- JimMyron Ross – James
- Tarra Riggs – Marlee
- Johnny McPhail – John
- Ventress Bonner – Teen
Top Highlights
Micheal J. Smith Sr.Lawrence
JimMyron RossJames
Tarra RiggsMarlee
Johnny McPhailJohn
Ventress BonnerTeen
Jimez AlexanderTeen
Where to Watch Ballast Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVParents Guide & Age Rating
Ballast is rated NR.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.1/10, and global collection metrics, Ballast stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2008 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ballast movie hit or flop?
Ballast is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.1/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is Ballast worth watching?
Yes, Ballast is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
Where can I watch Ballast online?
Ballast is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.