Is Communion Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Communion is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 103 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Communion Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1989, Communion emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Horror, Science Fiction, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A novelist's wife and son see him changed by an apparent encounter with aliens in the mountains. Unlike standard genre fare, Communion attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Communion features a noteworthy lineup led by Christopher Walken . Supported by the likes of Lindsay Crouse and Frances Sternhagen , 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 Communion (1989) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.3/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Communion Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Communion is a Drama, Horror, Science Fiction, Thriller film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Communion Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Communion attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Communion reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Communion?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Communion Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $1.9M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Communion Budget
The estimated production budget for Communion is $5.0M. 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 Communion
- Christopher Walken – Whitley Strieber
- Lindsay Crouse – Anne Strieber
- Frances Sternhagen – Dr. Janet Duffy
- Andreas Katsulas – Alex
- Terri Hanauer – Sarah
Top Highlights
Christopher WalkenWhitley Strieber
Lindsay CrouseAnne Strieber
Frances SternhagenDr. Janet Duffy
Andreas KatsulasAlex
Terri HanauerSarah
Joel CarlsonAndrew Strieber
John Dennis JohnstonFireman
DeeDee RescherMrs. Greenberg
Aileen FitzpatrickMother
R.J. MillerFather
Where to Watch Communion Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
fuboTV
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Shout! Factory Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Communion 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 5.3/10, and global collection metrics, Communion stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1989 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Communion movie hit or flop?
Communion has received mixed reviews with a 5.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Communion worth watching?
Communion is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Horror, Science Fiction movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Communion online?
Communion is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Shout! Factory Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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How Communion Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Communion
Based on a true story (!) by Whitley Streiber. He and his family come to realise they may have been visited by aliens. This is far from the zap and blast effects of much of this genre and instead takes a subtler, darker and more personal (it's not an alien invasion, more like the personal accounts) approach. In doing this, it becomes much more sinister without being a horror film, there are some truly dark moments. I remember the 'blue doctor' visiting his son very clearly. It has dated somewhat and has its imperfections but in not relying too heavily on special effects, it invites the viewer to share the emotions.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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