Performance & Direction: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning Review
Last updated: January 25, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning (1995) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.5/10. 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 Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning features a noteworthy lineup led by Randy Quaid . Supported by the likes of Alan Blumenfeld and Ving Rhames , 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 Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning (1995) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.5/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Story & Plot Summary: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning
Quick Plot Summary: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning is a Drama, TV Movie, Crime, Mystery 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: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning
Ending Breakdown: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning 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 Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, tv movie, crime, mystery 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: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning?
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: Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning
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Where to Watch Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning Online?
Streaming HubEd McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning Parents Guide & Age Rating
1995 AdvisoryWondering about Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning is 95 minutes (1h 35m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.5/10, and global performance metrics, Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1995 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning worth watching?
Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 4.5/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning?
The total duration of Ed McBain's 87th Precinct: Lightning is 95 minutes, which is approximately 1h 35m long.
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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.
