Cell

  • 2016
  • R
  • 98m
movieMx RATING
4.7
1.1K
VERDICT
AVERAGE
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Cell Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict

Last updated: April 11, 2026

movieMx Editorial
📅 Updated: April 11, 2026 🎟️ Verified Screening

Movie Overview: Cell

MovieCell
Release Year2016
DirectorTod Williams
GenreHorror / Science Fiction / Thriller
Runtime98 minutes
LanguageEN

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Cell (2016) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.

🎭 Cast & Character Study

The performances in Cell are led by John Cusack . The supporting cast, including Samuel L. Jackson and Isabelle Fuhrman , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.

💡 movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?

After analyzing the verified data, our assessment of Cell (2016) is disappointing. Even for die-hard fans, this one is a tough sell. With a platform rating of 4.7/10, it currently stands as a AVERAGE in our database.

What Works in the Movie

While Cell does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Horror films.

  • Interesting concept or premise
  • Some entertaining scenes
  • Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights

What Doesn't Work

Despite its strengths, Cell has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.

  • Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
  • Some predictable plot developments
  • May not appeal to audiences outside the Horror fanbase

Story & Plot Summary: Cell

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2016, Cell is a Horror, Science Fiction, Thriller film directed by Tod Williams. The narrative 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 involving John Cusack.

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. Director Tod Williams 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.

Ending Explained: Cell

Cell Ending Explained: Directed by Tod Williams, Cell attempts to bring together the film’s narrative threads. The ending highlights the core horror themes developed throughout the film.

The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving John Cusack. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.

Key Elements of the Ending

  • Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
  • Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
  • Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the horror themes introduced earlier in the film.

The final moments of Cell reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.

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

Box Office Collection: Cell

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Worldwide Gross $1.1M
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT
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Top Cast: Cell

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Where to Watch Cell Online?

Streaming Hub

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Cell Parents Guide & Age Rating

2016 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Cell age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

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.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Cell is 98 minutes (1h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.7/10, and global performance metrics, Cell is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2016 cinematic calendar.

AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Cell. Rating: 4.7/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cell worth watching?

Cell is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 4.7/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Cell parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Cell identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Cell?

The total duration of Cell is 98 minutes, which is approximately 1h 38m long.

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How Cell Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Cell

🛡️

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.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 4.7
Cell
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