Is D.A.R.Y.L. Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, D.A.R.Y.L. is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Family movies.
It features a runtime of 100 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
D.A.R.Y.L. Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1985, D.A.R.Y.L. emerges as a significant entry in the Family, Science Fiction, Action domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Daryl is a normal 10-year-old boy in many ways. Unlike standard genre fare, D.A.R.Y.L. attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Family is often anchored by its ensemble, and D.A.R.Y.L. features a noteworthy lineup led by Barret Oliver . Supported by the likes of Mary Beth Hurt and Michael McKean , 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 D.A.R.Y.L. (1985) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.4/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
D.A.R.Y.L. Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: D.A.R.Y.L. is a Family, Science Fiction, Action film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
D.A.R.Y.L. Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: D.A.R.Y.L. concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to family 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 family themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of D.A.R.Y.L. reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch D.A.R.Y.L.?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Family films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
D.A.R.Y.L. Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $10.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $7.8M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
D.A.R.Y.L. Budget
The estimated production budget for D.A.R.Y.L. is $10.0M. 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 D.A.R.Y.L.
- Barret Oliver – Daryl
- Mary Beth Hurt – Joyce Richardson
- Michael McKean – Andy Richardson
- Kathryn Walker – Dr. Ellen Lamb
- Colleen Camp – Elaine Fox
Top Highlights
Barret OliverDaryl
Mary Beth HurtJoyce Richardson
Michael McKeanAndy Richardson
Kathryn WalkerDr. Ellen Lamb
Colleen CampElaine Fox
Josef SommerDr. Jeffrey Stewart
Steve RyanHowie Fox
Ron FrazierGeneral Graycliffe
David WohlMr. Nesbitt
Danny CorkillTurtle
Where to Watch D.A.R.Y.L. Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVParents Guide & Age Rating
D.A.R.Y.L. is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, D.A.R.Y.L. stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1985 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is D.A.R.Y.L. movie hit or flop?
D.A.R.Y.L. has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is D.A.R.Y.L. worth watching?
D.A.R.Y.L. is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Family, Science Fiction, Action movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch D.A.R.Y.L. online?
D.A.R.Y.L. may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for D.A.R.Y.L.
This film is a nostalgia fest for me. Am I being a bit selfish to review a film when I am so connected to it , perhaps so I will try to put my love for the film aside and review it for what it is. This film is part of what I would call the Amblin generation of films (although it is not an Amblin film) because it came out in a decade full of wonderful family films (Goonies,Gremlins,Cocoon,Neverending story etc..) . It was a time when adults could watch a so called kids film and enjoy it as much as their rugrats. D.A.R.Y.L is a family drama with a dash of Sci-Fy , it is two film in one.A heart warming film for the first half and a children Sci Fy thriller in it's second half.These two different style works surprisingly well here. There is something so welcoming about the first half when young D.A.R.Y.L superbly played by child actor Barret Oliver is found in the middle of the wood and put into foster care as a test drive for a couple who desperately want to adopt a child. Here he meet his first friend , potty mouthed Turtle (Yeah he his called Turtle) and learn valuable lessons about how to relate to adults (The kid does not know a thing about being a son) There is just something so incredibly warm and fuzzy about the first half of the movie that makes it the perfect choice for a rainy Sunday afternoon.There is that 80's charm.It is also nice to basically watch a family that enjoy the little thing in life like baseball , Ice cream etc..The suburban setting his welcoming and the 80's vibe will bring as much memories to 80's kids as lets say "The Andy Griffith Show" does for children of the 50's. It was a simpler time and this film shows that. Barret Oliver as D.A.R.Y.L is a great main character , he his curious , oddly different and curiously smart...way too smart. The second half reveal something is different about D.A.R.Y.L and that is when the Sci-Fy elements kicks in. I am not going to say what it is just in case the person who is reading this know nothing about this film (The cover of the DVD reveals way too much unfortunately). This film is a great film for the all family.If you feel to escape the grim reality of life lol you could do far worse then putting this charming film on! I give D.A.R.Y.L a 8 out of 10.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
