Performance & Direction: Early Release Review
Last updated: January 20, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Early Release (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.5/10. 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 Early Release features a noteworthy lineup led by Kelli Williams . Supported by the likes of Niamh Wilson and Sarain Boylan , 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 Early Release (2017) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: Early Release
Quick Plot Summary: Early Release is a Drama, Thriller, TV Movie 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: Early Release
Ending Breakdown: Early Release attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Early Release reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Early Release?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Early Release
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Early Release Online?
Streaming HubEarly Release Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about Early Release age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Early Release is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Early Release stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2017 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Early Release worth watching?
Early Release is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.5/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Early Release parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Early Release identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Early Release?
The total duration of Early Release is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.
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Critic Reviews for Early Release
Cheesy and uneven, but 'Early Release' manages to sufficiently entertain. It's another one of those American television network films that is held back by the usual age rating etc. stuff. This type of story told with a much darker and menacing tone would've been potentially excellent, instead we get a very watered down version of events. The casting is good, it's nothing spectacular but Kelli Williams (Taylor), Sarain Boylan (Meghan), Niamh Wilson (Bianca) and Justin Mader (Jeff) all work together pretty well - Boylan probably gives the standout performance. Happy to say I enjoyed this, the ending is fairly poor but even then it has one or two things in it that I liked. 3*.
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.
