Is Deadfall Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Deadfall is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 120 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Deadfall Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1968, Deadfall emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Action, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Cat burglar Henry Clarke and his accomplices the Moreaus attempt to steal diamonds from the chateau of millionaire Salinas. Unlike standard genre fare, Deadfall 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 Deadfall features a noteworthy lineup led by Michael Caine . Supported by the likes of Giovanna Ralli and Eric Portman , 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 Deadfall (1968) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.4/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Deadfall Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Deadfall is a Drama, Action, Crime 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.
Deadfall Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Deadfall attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 Deadfall reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Deadfall Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Deadfall incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, 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: Deadfall adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Deadfall?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Deadfall
- Michael Caine – Henry
- Giovanna Ralli – Fe
- Eric Portman – Moreau
- Nanette Newman – The Girl
- Vladek Sheybal – Dr. Delgado
Top Highlights
Michael CaineHenry
Giovanna RalliFe
Eric PortmanMoreau
Nanette NewmanThe Girl
Vladek SheybalDr. Delgado
Emilio RodríguezPolice Captain
David BuckSalinas
Carmen DeneMasseuse
Geraldine ShermanReceptionist
Leonard RossiterFillmore
Where to Watch Deadfall Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTVParents Guide & Age Rating
Deadfall has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Drama, Action, Crime), it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.4/10, and global collection metrics, Deadfall stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1968 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deadfall movie hit or flop?
Deadfall has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Deadfall worth watching?
Deadfall is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Action, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Deadfall online?
Deadfall is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. You can also check for it on platforms like fuboTV depending on your region.
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Critic Reviews for Deadfall
This is quite a curious film from Bryan Forbes. On the face of it, it's just a well produced "Topkapi" (1964) rip off without the humour or the style; but if you give it a chance it's a bit more sophisticated. Michael Caine is on good form as a petty thief who is recruited by the enigmatic Giovanna Ralli and Eric Portman (Fe and Richard Moreau) to carry out a heist that will net them millions of pesetas from a safe in Spain. This does't quite go to plan, indeed it's at time quite comical - but they then move on to an even more daring challenge and that's when the characterisations start to make more of an impact on the rather ordinary plot. Eric Portman is the star here for me. Even though his delivery can be a bit annoying at times, this was probably the only time I ever saw him playing a part that reflected his own personality, and as we discover more about the rather quirky, shall we say, nature of the marriage between the two then things begin to make a bit more sense and the film a bit more intriguing. It is way, way, too long - lots of beautiful photography that advances the story not a jot, and I didn't love the conclusion, that seemed unnecessarily finite, but for a film I'd never heard of until yesterday, I think it is well worth a watch.
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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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