Is Crank Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Crank is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 88 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Crank Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2006, Crank emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Thriller, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Chev Chelios, a hit man wanting to go straight, lets his latest target slip away. Unlike standard genre fare, Crank 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 Crank features a noteworthy lineup led by Jason Statham . Supported by the likes of Amy Smart and Jose Pablo Cantillo , 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 Crank (2006) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Crank Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Crank is a Action, Thriller, 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.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. Chev Chelios, a hit man wanting to go straight, lets his latest target slip away. Then he awakes the next morning to a phone call that informs him he has been poisoned and has only an hour to live unless he keeps adrenaline coursing through his body while he searches for an antidote. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- 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 final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Crank Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Crank concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Crank reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Crank Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Crank incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, thriller, 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: Crank adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Crank?
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
Crank Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $12.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $42.9M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Crank Budget
The estimated production budget for Crank is $12.0M. 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 Crank
- Jason Statham – Chev Chelios
- Amy Smart – Eve
- Jose Pablo Cantillo – Ricky Verona
- Efren Ramirez – Kaylo
- Dwight Yoakam – Doc Miles
Top Highlights
Jason StathamChev Chelios
Amy SmartEve
Jose Pablo CantilloRicky Verona
Efren RamirezKaylo
Dwight YoakamDoc Miles
Carlos SanzCarlito
Reno WilsonOrlando
Edi GathegiHaitian Cabbie
Glenn HowertonDoctor
Jay XcalaAlex
Where to Watch Crank Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Lionsgate Play
Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel
Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Crank is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.7/10, and global collection metrics, Crank stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2006 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crank movie hit or flop?
Crank has received mixed reviews with a 6.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Crank worth watching?
Crank is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Thriller, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Crank online?
Crank is currently available for streaming on Lionsgate Play. You can also check for it on platforms like Lionsgate Play, Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel, Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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Critic Reviews for Crank
A violent and vulgar distraction. Indeed, British magazine Radio Times reviewed Crank and called it a violent and vulgar distraction, maybe so if you be a little prudish and timid of stomach for high octane thrills. Crank is utterly bonkers fun, and it knows it, star Jason Statham knows it, directors Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor know it, and quite frankly any action movie junkie fan knows it. The tongue is planted so firmly into cheek it is in danger of breaking skin, it's a film that lives to take you on a most improbable thrill ride and succeeds admirably in doing so. Plot is kind of incidental, but Statham has been injected with a Chinese drug that will kill him if his adrenalin levels drop. So off he goes in search of vengeance and maybe an antidote? He runs, he jumps, he snorts drugs, has sex with Amy Smart in public, rides a motorbike like Evel Knievel, flashes his arse a lot and gets a major league erection. He, much like the film, never pauses for breath, it's all very breakneck and kinetic. The makers are guilty of acting like kids locked in a sweet shop, with all the flashy tricks of the action movie trade used wherever possible, but so what? Sit back with a good drink and some movie snacks and enjoy one of the best action movie rides of 2006. 8/10
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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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