Is Cell Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Cell is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Cell Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2016, Cell emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Science Fiction, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of When a strange signal pulsates through all cell phone networks worldwide, it starts a murderous epidemic of epic proportions when users become bloodthirsty creatures, and a group of people in New England are among the survivors to deal with the ensuing chaos after. Unlike standard genre fare, Cell attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Cell features a noteworthy lineup led by John Cusack . Supported by the likes of Samuel L. Jackson and Isabelle Fuhrman , 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 Cell (2016) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Cell Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Cell is a Horror, Science Fiction, Thriller film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. When a strange signal pulsates through all cell phone networks worldwide, it starts a murderous epidemic of epic proportions when users become bloodthirsty creatures, and a group of people in New England are among the survivors to deal with the ensuing chaos after. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Cell Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Cell attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Cell reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Cell?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Cell Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $1.1M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
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Full Cast & Crew of Cell
- John Cusack – Clayton 'Clay' Riddell
- Samuel L. Jackson – Thomas 'Tom' McCourt
- Isabelle Fuhrman – Alice Maxwell
- Owen Teague – Jordan
- Clark Sarullo – Sharon Riddell
Top Highlights
John CusackClayton 'Clay' Riddell
Samuel L. JacksonThomas 'Tom' McCourt
Isabelle FuhrmanAlice Maxwell
Owen TeagueJordan
Clark SarulloSharon Riddell
Anthony ReynoldsRay
Erin Elizabeth BurnsDenise
Stacy KeachCharles Ardai
Alex ter AvestChloe
Wilbur FitzgeraldGeoff
Where to Watch Cell Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Cell is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.7/10, and global collection metrics, Cell stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2016 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cell movie hit or flop?
Cell is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.7/10 and lower collections.
Is Cell worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.7/10, Cell may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Cell online?
Cell 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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How Cell Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Cell
This is another example of a Stephen King novel that has not translated well into film. It's the usual 'bogey man' from nowhere who gets inside you head and dreams, sent to create mayhem and destruction against the human race, who are being turned into crazed killers by a mysterious signal from their mobile phones! One man (Cusack) in search of his son, thinks he can save humanity! The story line seems random and the ending has to be one of the worst I've ever seen.
I've never read _Cell_, so I'm not sure if this is an accurate adaptation of a bad Stephen King book, or just another inaccurate adaptation of a Stephen King book. But either way, it's bad. For a decent Cusack/Jackson team up in a King adaptation, just watch 1408. Final rating:★½: - Boring/disappointing. Avoid if possible.
Brain Cell or Brain Drain? Well I haven't read the book but I like Stephen King, I like John Cusack and I like Samuel Jackson, so Cell seemed like a good choice for a late night cerebral chiller. How far off was I? As it happens, very! Suddenly cell phones are turning the populace into crazed homicidal maniacs, a small band of survivors try to stay alive and figure out what is going on... It starts off promisingly, with whirls of chaotic violence and blood, but it then turns into a travelogue movie where everybody either looks bored or is clearly doing it for the money. There's some good ideas at work but the film never delivers on its promise, even serving up an ending that defies patience as well as logic. Being vague is a good thing if the pay off is worth the wait, unfortunately that isn't the case here. Epic fail and the actors and audience deserve better. 3/10
Very poor, despite the presence of John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson. 'Cell' is basically 'Land of the Dead' without the proper zombies, at least that's what this 2016 flick kept reminding me of. That George A. Romero film is good, this Tod Williams release is not. It's a mess throughout and lacks any tension, freshness or uniqueness. Cusack and Jackson should be a good pairing, yet I don't even recall anything from their respective performances just minutes after watching. Both are capable of a lot better than this, especially Jackson. No-one sticks out behind that duo, though it's neat to see 'Prison Break' actor Stacy Keach involved. One to avoid, I'd say.
After seeing the rotten tomatoes score I felt the need to come and rate this here. Is it the best movie in the world? No. Is it the worst? Heck no! For a movie straight to DVD and a low budget, it gets by well with 2 well known lead actors. The story itself is an original idea I have not seen before in a horror movie. It may be labeled as a horror, but there are no real scares. More of a thriller. I'm not a professional reviewer but I just wanted to add my 2 cents. It's not a 5 star movie. 3 and a half, or 4 at most. Go into it with an open mind. Your single viewing may surprise you
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
