Dial M for Murder

  • 1981
  • NR
  • 98m
movieMx RATING
5.9
13
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Dial M for Murder Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict

Last updated: April 14, 2026

movieMx Editorial
📅 Updated: April 14, 2026 🎟️ Verified Screening

Movie Overview: Dial M for Murder

MovieDial M for Murder
Release Year1981
DirectorBoris Sagal
GenreThriller / TV Movie
Runtime98 minutes
LanguageEN

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Dial M for Murder (1981) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.

🎭 Cast & Character Study

The performances in Dial M for Murder are led by Angie Dickinson . The supporting cast, including Christopher Plummer and Anthony Quayle , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.

💡 movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?

After analyzing the verified data, our assessment of Dial M for Murder (1981) is mixed. It has its moments but fails to leave a lasting impression. With a platform rating of 5.9/10, it currently stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our database.

What Works in the Movie

While Dial M for Murder does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Thriller films.

  • Interesting concept or premise
  • Some entertaining scenes
  • Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights

What Doesn't Work

Despite its strengths, Dial M for Murder has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.

  • Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
  • Some predictable plot developments
  • May not appeal to audiences outside the Thriller fanbase

Story & Plot Summary: Dial M for Murder

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1981, Dial M for Murder is a Thriller, TV Movie film directed by Boris Sagal. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Angie Dickinson.

Ending Explained: Dial M for Murder

Dial M for Murder Ending Explained: Directed by Boris Sagal, Dial M for Murder attempts to bring together the film’s narrative threads. The ending highlights the core thriller themes developed throughout the film.

The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving Angie Dickinson. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.

Key Elements of the Ending

  • Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
  • Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
  • Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the thriller themes introduced earlier in the film.

The final moments of Dial M for Murder reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.

Who Should Watch Dial M for Murder?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Thriller films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Top Cast: Dial M for Murder

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Dial M for Murder Parents Guide & Age Rating

1981 Advisory
NR

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Dial M for Murder age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Dial M for Murder is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Dial M for Murder is 98 minutes (1h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.9/10, and global performance metrics, Dial M for Murder is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1981 cinematic calendar.

ABOVE AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Dial M for Murder. Rating: 5.9/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dial M for Murder worth watching?

Dial M for Murder is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Dial M for Murder parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Dial M for Murder identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Dial M for Murder?

The total duration of Dial M for Murder is 98 minutes, which is approximately 1h 38m long.

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How Dial M for Murder Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Dial M for Murder

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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.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.9
Dial M for Murder
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