Is Double Exposure Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Double Exposure is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 95 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Double Exposure Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1982, Double Exposure emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Horror, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A photographer for a men's magazine is haunted by disturbing dreams, in which he slaughters his models. Unlike standard genre fare, Double Exposure attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Double Exposure features a noteworthy lineup led by Michael Callan . Supported by the likes of Joanna Pettet and James Stacy , 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 Double Exposure (1982) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.2/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Double Exposure Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Double Exposure is a Crime, Horror, Thriller film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Double Exposure Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Double Exposure attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Double Exposure reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Double Exposure Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Double Exposure incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, horror, thriller 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: Double Exposure adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Double Exposure?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Double Exposure Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $1.0M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Double Exposure Budget
The estimated production budget for Double Exposure is $1.0M. 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.
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Double Exposure
- Michael Callan – Adrian Wilde
- Joanna Pettet – Mindy Jordache
- James Stacy – B.J. Wilde
- Pamela Hensley – Sgt. Fontain
- Cleavon Little – Police Chief
Top Highlights
Michael CallanAdrian Wilde
Joanna PettetMindy Jordache
James StacyB.J. Wilde
Pamela HensleySgt. Fontain
Cleavon LittlePolice Chief
Seymour CasselDr. Frank Curtis
Robert TessierBartender
David YoungSgt. Buckhold
Don PotterLewis
Misty RoweBambi
Where to Watch Double Exposure Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Double Exposure has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Crime, Horror, Thriller), it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.2/10, and global collection metrics, Double Exposure stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1982 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Double Exposure movie hit or flop?
Double Exposure is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.2/10 and lower collections.
Is Double Exposure worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.2/10, Double Exposure may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Double Exposure online?
Double Exposure 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.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Double Exposure
How Double Exposure Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Double Exposure
**_Who’s killing alluring women in early 80’s SoCal?_** A photographer in Los Angeles (Michael Callan) has troubling dreams as he juggles visits to a shrink (Seymour Cassel), dealing with his amputee brother (James Stacy) and establishing a new romantic relationship (Joanna Pettet). Meanwhile a serial killer is on the loose. “Double Exposure” (1982) is a psychological murder mystery with some slasher elements. Think of movies like Shatner’s “Impulse,” “The Centerfold Girls” or “Haunts” mixed with a little “Nightmare” from the year prior. It’s basically a quasi-remake of Callan’s own “The Photographer” from eight years prior. The quality cast is rounded out by the likes of Pamela Hensley, Cleavon Little, Robert Tessier and Don Potter with the female cast highlighted by Misty Rowe (Bambi), Debbie Zipp (Toni), Sally Kirkland and Victoria Jackson (her cinematic debut in a bit part). It runs 1 hour, 34 minutes, and was shot in the Los Angeles area, including Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks and Tarzana, Burbank and Santa Monica Beach. GRADE: B-
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
