Performance & Direction: Deserter Review
Last updated: January 25, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Deserter (2002) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Deserter features a noteworthy lineup led by Paul Fox . Supported by the likes of Tom Hardy and Kate Maberly , 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 Deserter (2002) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.2/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Story & Plot Summary: Deserter
Quick Plot Summary: Deserter is a Drama, War film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Deserter
Ending Breakdown: Deserter 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 Deserter reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Deserter Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Deserter uses real-world events as narrative inspiration. As a drama, war 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, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: Deserter adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Deserter?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Deserter
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $3.5M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Deserter Budget
The estimated production budget for Deserter is $3.5M. 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.
Top Cast: Deserter
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Deserter Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoDeserter Parents Guide & Age Rating
2002 AdvisoryWondering about Deserter age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Deserter is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.2/10, and global performance metrics, Deserter is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2002 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deserter worth watching?
Deserter is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.2/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Deserter parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Deserter identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Deserter?
The total duration of Deserter is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.
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How Deserter Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Deserter
Kinda good, kinda bad. For the most part, though, I did mostly like 'Deserter'. It's got a weird sorta vibe to it and feels cheaply made, though with that said the locations are convincing enough. Tom Hardy does well in just his second movie, though does sport a very iffy French accent. Paul Fox is alright in (despite what that presumably retrospective poster suggests) the lead role, he looks a little like Donald O'Connor in this, so there's that. I can fully see why some may dislike this. For me, it's one to narrowly file under 'good'.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
