Is Bullitt Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Bullitt is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 113 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Bullitt Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1968, Bullitt emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Crime, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Senator Walter Chalmers is aiming to take down mob boss Pete Ross with the help of testimony from the criminal's hothead brother Johnny, who is in protective custody in San Francisco under the watch of police lieutenant Frank Bullitt. Unlike standard genre fare, Bullitt attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Bullitt features a noteworthy lineup led by Steve McQueen . Supported by the likes of Robert Vaughn and Jacqueline Bisset , 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 Bullitt (1968) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.1/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Bullitt Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Bullitt is a Action, Crime, Thriller 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.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. Senator Walter Chalmers is aiming to take down mob boss Pete Ross with the help of testimony from the criminal's hothead brother Johnny, who is in protective custody in San Francisco under the watch of police lieutenant Frank Bullitt. When a pair of mob hitmen enter the scene, Bullitt follows their trail through a maze of complications and double-crosses. This thriller includes one of the most famous car chases ever filmed. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- 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 final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Bullitt Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Bullitt resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to action 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Bullitt reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Bullitt Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Bullitt incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, crime, thriller 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: Bullitt adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Bullitt?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Bullitt Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.5M |
| Worldwide Gross | $42.3M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Bullitt Budget
The estimated production budget for Bullitt is $5.5M. 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 Bullitt
- Steve McQueen – Lt. Frank Bullitt
- Robert Vaughn – Walter Chalmers
- Jacqueline Bisset – Cathy
- Don Gordon – Lt. Delgetti
- Robert Duvall – Cabbie Weissberg
Top Highlights
Steve McQueenLt. Frank Bullitt
Robert VaughnWalter Chalmers
Jacqueline BissetCathy
Don GordonLt. Delgetti
Robert DuvallCabbie Weissberg
Simon OaklandCaptain Sam Bennett
Norman FellCaptain Baker
Georg Stanford BrownDr. Willard
Justin TarrEddy
Carl ReindelDetective Stanton
Where to Watch Bullitt Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Bullitt is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.1/10, and global collection metrics, Bullitt stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1968 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bullitt movie hit or flop?
Bullitt 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 Action, Crime, Thriller movies.
Is Bullitt worth watching?
Yes, Bullitt is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Action, Crime, Thriller cinema.
Where can I watch Bullitt online?
Bullitt 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.
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Critic Reviews for Bullitt
Steve McQueen is at his most grumpily enigmatic as he portrays this unorthodox San Francisco police lieutenant. He's none too pleased when the greasy-pole merchant "Sen. Chambers" (Robert Vaughn) has him detailed to guard a shady character who's a potential witness in a case against some hitherto Teflon gangsters. When two gunmen break into his room and gun him down, it becomes imperative that "Bullitt" gets to the bottom of things before his new found pal nails his slats to the mast. With the active support of "Capt. Bennet" (Simon Oakland) who increasingly has to run point for the man, he begins an investigation that manages to irritate just about everyone as he realises the case is complex and downright dangerous. It's this left field style of work that this cop excels at, and McQueen is on confident form delivering a persona that's conflicted and determined to get to the truth without selling his soul to Satan. To that latter end, he must rely more and more on girlfriend "Cathy" (Jacqueline Bisset) who seems to be his only link with sanity as the maelstrom of events begins to get on top of him. It's famous for the car chase, and some of the scenes at the airport towards the end are directed really quite tensely but I can't pretend I liked the conclusion. After all the interweaving and duplicity, it all rather ran out of steam. The style of the production isn't exactly electric either, and in many ways it reminded me of a great many other similar style vehicles about rogue police officers created for A-list actors whose careers might be considered "between genres". That said it's still a good, solid, thriller with a few twists and a Vaughn who always managed to portray the sleazy characters naturally.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
