Broken City
Performance & Direction: Broken City Review
Last updated: January 21, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Broken City (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Broken City features a noteworthy lineup led by Mark Wahlberg . Supported by the likes of Russell Crowe and Catherine Zeta-Jones , 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 Broken City (2013) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: Broken City
Quick Plot Summary: Broken City is a Thriller, Crime, Drama 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.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. In a broken city rife with injustice, ex-cop Billy Taggart seeks redemption and revenge after being double-crossed and then framed by its most powerful figure, the mayor. Billy's relentless pursuit of justice, matched only by his streetwise toughness, makes him an unstoppable force - and the mayor's worst nightmare. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside the protagonist. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that will drive the narrative forward.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Ending Explained: Broken City
Ending Breakdown: Broken City 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 Broken City reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Broken City Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Broken City incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a thriller, crime, drama 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: Broken City adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Broken City?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Broken City
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $56.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $34.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Broken City Budget
The estimated production budget for Broken City is $56.0M. 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.
Top Cast: Broken City
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Broken City Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeBroken City Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about Broken City age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Broken City is 109 minutes (1h 49m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.9/10, and global collection metrics, Broken City stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2013 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Broken City worth watching?
Broken City is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Broken City parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Broken City identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Broken City?
The total duration of Broken City is 109 minutes, which is approximately 1h 49m 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.
