Is Cleaner Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Cleaner is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 88 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Cleaner Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2007, Cleaner emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Thriller, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Single father and former cop Tom Cutler has an unusual occupation: he cleans up death scenes. Unlike standard genre fare, Cleaner attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Cleaner features a noteworthy lineup led by Samuel L. Jackson . Supported by the likes of Ed Harris and Eva Mendes , 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 Cleaner (2007) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Cleaner Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Cleaner is a Crime, Thriller, Mystery film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. Single father and former cop Tom Cutler has an unusual occupation: he cleans up death scenes. But when he's called in to sterilize a wealthy suburban residence after a brutal shooting, Cutler is shocked to learn he may have unknowingly erased crucial evidence, entangling himself in a dirty criminal cover-up. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- 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 climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Cleaner Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Cleaner concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Cleaner reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Cleaner Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Cleaner incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, thriller, mystery 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: Cleaner adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Cleaner?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Cleaner Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $25.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $5.8M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Cleaner Budget
The estimated production budget for Cleaner is $25.0M. 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.
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Full Cast & Crew of Cleaner
- Samuel L. Jackson – Tom Cutler
- Ed Harris – Eddie Lorenzo
- Eva Mendes – Ann Norcut
- Luis Guzmán – Det. Jim Vargas
- Keke Palmer – Rose Cutler
Top Highlights
Samuel L. JacksonTom Cutler
Ed HarrisEddie Lorenzo
Eva MendesAnn Norcut
Luis GuzmánDet. Jim Vargas
Keke PalmerRose Cutler
Maggie LawsonCherie
Jose Pablo CantilloMiguel
Robert ForsterArlo Grange
Terry MilamVictim's Neighbor
Marc MacaulayVic
Where to Watch Cleaner Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with AdsParents Guide & Age Rating
Cleaner is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.1/10, and global collection metrics, Cleaner stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2007 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cleaner movie hit or flop?
Cleaner has received mixed reviews with a 6.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Cleaner worth watching?
Cleaner is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Thriller, Mystery movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Cleaner online?
Cleaner is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.
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movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
