RATING★ 6.4/10
VERDICT ABOVE AVERAGE
City War (1988) movie backdrop
City War (1988) movie poster

City War Hit or Flop?

Rating
6.4/10
🎯Verdict
ABOVE AVERAGE
👍 GOOD
  • Engaging Storyline
  • Strong Performances
👎 BAD
  • Pacing issues in mid
  • Predictable ending
198896 minAction, Crime
Audience VerdictABOVE AVERAGE

City War

City War Movie Hit or Flop?

ABOVE AVERAGE

Verdict:City War is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.4/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Action, Crime genre.

Is City War Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, City War is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.

It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.

6.4/10 17 votes
96Minutes
1988Release Year
Visual Story
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City War Review

Last updated: January 18, 2026

🎬 Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations

Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1988, City War emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Two partnered cops who are also best friends find their friendship and their lives at stake when they try to take down a ruthless drug dealer. Unlike standard genre fare, City War 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 City War features a noteworthy lineup led by Chow Yun-Fat . Supported by the likes of Ti Lung and Norman Tsui Siu-Keung , 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 City War (1988) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.4/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.

City War Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline

Quick Plot Summary: City War is a Action, 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.

City War Ending Explained & Final Analysis

Ending Breakdown: City War concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. 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 City War reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

City War Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?

City War incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, 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: City War adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.

Who Should Watch City War?

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
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Full Cast & Crew of City War

  • Chow Yun-Fat – Dick Lee
  • Ti Lung – Ken Chow
  • Norman Tsui Siu-Keung – Ted Yiu
  • Tien Niu – Penny
  • Steve Lee Ka-Ting – Assistant Chief Officer. Ho Ka Ting

Top Highlights

Chow Yun-Fat
Chow Yun-FatDick Lee
Ti Lung
Ti LungKen Chow
Norman Tsui Siu-Keung
Norman Tsui Siu-KeungTed Yiu
Tien Niu
Tien NiuPenny
Steve Lee Ka-Ting
Steve Lee Ka-TingAssistant Chief Officer. Ho Ka Ting
Lo Lieh
Lo LiehBoss Kuen
Teresa Carpio
Teresa CarpioTeresa
Michael Chow Man-Kin
Michael Chow Man-KinBobby
Mary Hon Ma-Lee
Mary Hon Ma-LeeFan
Ricky Wong Chun-Tong
Ricky Wong Chun-TongSergeant Wu

Where to Watch City War Online?

Streaming Hub

📺 Stream on

fuboTVfuboTV
Eros Now Select Apple TV ChannelEros Now Select Apple TV Channel

🎟️ Rent on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV
Fandango At HomeFandango At Home

🏷️ Buy on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV
Fandango At HomeFandango At Home

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
City War has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Action, Crime), it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, City War stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1988 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is City War movie hit or flop?

City War has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is City War worth watching?

City War is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Crime movies, but read reviews first.

Where can I watch City War online?

City War is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. You can also check for it on platforms like fuboTV, Eros Now Select Apple TV Channel depending on your region.

Best Movies to Watch if you liked City War

How City War Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for City War

No reviews found for this filter.

🛡️

movieMx Verified

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
★ 6.4
City War
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/city-war-46155" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 6.4</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">City War</div></div></a>

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