Is Breaking In Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Breaking In is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 94 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Breaking In Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1989, Breaking In emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Professional thief Ernie takes Mike on as an apprentice, but while Mike clearly has "larceny in his heart", it will take him a long time to get as good as Ernie. Unlike standard genre fare, Breaking In attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Breaking In features a noteworthy lineup led by Burt Reynolds . Supported by the likes of Casey Siemaszko and Sheila Kelley , 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 Breaking In (1989) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Breaking In Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Breaking In is a Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Breaking In Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Breaking In attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Breaking In reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Breaking In Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Breaking In incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, adventure, comedy, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Breaking In adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Breaking In?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Breaking In
- Burt Reynolds – Ernie Mullins
- Casey Siemaszko – Mike Lafebb
- Sheila Kelley – Carrie aka Fontaine
- Lorraine Toussaint – Delphine the Hooker
- Albert Salmi – Johnny Scot
Top Highlights
Burt ReynoldsErnie Mullins
Casey SiemaszkoMike Lafebb
Sheila KelleyCarrie aka Fontaine
Lorraine ToussaintDelphine the Hooker
Albert SalmiJohnny Scot
Harry Carey, Jr.Shoes
Maury ChaykinVincent Tucci
Stephen TobolowskyDistrict Attorney
Julianne JohnsonHardware Store Cashier
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Breaking In is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Breaking In stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1989 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breaking In movie hit or flop?
Breaking In has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Breaking In worth watching?
Breaking In is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Adventure, Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Breaking In online?
Breaking In 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 Breaking In
How Breaking In Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Breaking In
Okay drama-crime-comedy featuring two fine performances from Burt Reynolds and Casey Siemaszko and while the crime elements were fun, the drama part was a bit bland. Nothing I'd watch again but might be worth checking out especially if you're a Reynolds's fan. **3.25/5**
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
