Bastard Out of Carolina

  • 1996
  • R
  • 97m
movieMx RATING
7.1/1080
VERDICT
HIT
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Performance & Direction: Bastard Out of Carolina Review

Last updated: February 7, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: February 7, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Bastard Out of Carolina (1996) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Bastard Out of Carolina features a noteworthy lineup led by Jennifer Jason Leigh . Supported by the likes of Ron Eldard and Glenne Headly , 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 Bastard Out of Carolina (1996) is generally positive. With an audience rating of 7.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Result: HIT
Based on verified audience sentiment and box office trajectory, Bastard Out of Carolina stands as a HIT.

Story & Plot Summary: Bastard Out of Carolina

Quick Plot Summary: Bastard Out of Carolina is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.

Ending Explained: Bastard Out of Carolina

Ending Breakdown: Bastard Out of Carolina 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 Bastard Out of Carolina reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Bastard Out of Carolina?

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
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Top Cast: Bastard Out of Carolina

All Cast & Crew →
Jennifer Jason Leigh
Jennifer Jason LeighAnney Boatwright
Ron Eldard
Ron EldardGlen Waddell
Glenne Headly
Glenne HeadlyAunt Ruth
Jena Malone
Jena MaloneRuth Anne 'Bone' Boatwright
Dermot Mulroney
Dermot MulroneyLyle Parsons
Michael Rooker
Michael RookerUncle Earle
Diana Scarwid
Diana ScarwidAunt Raylene
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Where to Watch Bastard Out of Carolina Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

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🏷️ Buy on

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Bastard Out of Carolina Parents Guide & Age Rating

1996 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Bastard Out of Carolina age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Bastard Out of Carolina is rated R. It is intended for mature audiences only.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Bastard Out of Carolina is 97 minutes (1h 37m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, Bastard Out of Carolina is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1996 cinematic calendar.

HIT
Official movieMx status for Bastard Out of Carolina. Rating: 7.1/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bastard Out of Carolina worth watching?

Bastard Out of Carolina is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.1/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Bastard Out of Carolina parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Bastard Out of Carolina identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Bastard Out of Carolina?

The total duration of Bastard Out of Carolina is 97 minutes, which is approximately 1h 37m long.

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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.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 7.1
Bastard Out of Carolina
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