RATING★ 7.2/10
VERDICT HIT
Bound (1996) movie backdrop
Bound (1996) movie poster

Bound Hit or Flop?

Rating
7.2/10
🎯Verdict
HIT
👍 GOOD
  • Engaging Storyline
  • Strong Performances
👎 BAD
  • Pacing issues in mid
  • Predictable ending
1996105 minDrama, Thriller, Crime
Audience VerdictHIT
Box Office ClassStandard

Bound

Bound Movie Hit or Flop?

HIT

Verdict:Bound is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 7.2/10, it has delivered a compelling experience for fans of the Drama, Thriller, Crime genre.

Is Bound Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, Bound is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.

It features a runtime of 105 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to mature audiences.

7.2/10 1,043 votes
105Minutes
1996Release Year
Visual Story
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Bound Review

Last updated: January 18, 2026

🎬 Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations

Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1996, Bound emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Thriller, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Corky, a tough female ex-convict working on an apartment renovation in a Chicago building, meets a couple living next door, Caesar, a paranoid mobster, and Violet, his seductive girlfriend, who is immediately attracted to her. Unlike standard genre fare, Bound 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 Bound features a noteworthy lineup led by Gina Gershon . Supported by the likes of Jennifer Tilly and Joe Pantoliano , 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 Bound (1996) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.2/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.

Bound Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline

Quick Plot Summary: Bound is a Drama, Thriller, Crime 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.

Story Breakdown

This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Corky, a tough female ex-convict working on an apartment renovation in a Chicago building, meets a couple living next door, Caesar, a paranoid mobster, and Violet, his seductive girlfriend, who is immediately attracted to her. The screenplay takes time to develop its characters, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.

Narrative Structure

  • Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
  • Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
  • Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's themes.

Bound Ending Explained & Final Analysis

Ending Breakdown: Bound resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Bound reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Bound Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?

Bound incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, thriller, crime 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: Bound adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.

Who Should Watch Bound?

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

Bound Box Office Collection

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $4.5M
Worldwide Gross $7.0M
Trade Verdict CLEAN HIT

Bound Budget

The estimated production budget for Bound is $4.5M. 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 Bound

  • Gina Gershon – Corky
  • Jennifer Tilly – Violet
  • Joe Pantoliano – Caesar
  • John P. Ryan – Mickey Malnato
  • Christopher Meloni – Johnnie Marzzone

Top Highlights

Gina Gershon
Gina GershonCorky
Jennifer Tilly
Jennifer TillyViolet
Joe Pantoliano
Joe PantolianoCaesar
John P. Ryan
John P. RyanMickey Malnato
Christopher Meloni
Christopher MeloniJohnnie Marzzone
Richard C. Sarafian
Richard C. SarafianGino Marzzone
Barry Kivel
Barry KivelShelly
Mary Mara
Mary MaraBartender
Susie Bright
Susie BrightJesse
Margaret Smith
Margaret SmithWoman Cop

Where to Watch Bound Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video

Parents Guide & Age Rating

R
Bound 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 7.2/10, and global collection metrics, Bound stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1996 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bound movie hit or flop?

Bound is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.2/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, Thriller, Crime movies.

Is Bound worth watching?

Yes, Bound is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, Thriller, Crime cinema.

Where can I watch Bound online?

Bound may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.

Best Movies to Watch if you liked Bound

How Bound Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Bound

🛡️

movieMx Verified

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
★ 7.2
Bound
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/bound-9303" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 7.2</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Bound</div></div></a>

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