Hourglass

  • 1997
  • R
  • 87m
movieMx RATING
4.5/10$10.0
VERDICT
AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Hourglass Review

Last updated: January 21, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: January 21, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Hourglass (1997) 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 Thriller.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Hourglass features a noteworthy lineup led by C. Thomas Howell . Supported by the likes of Sofia Shinas and Anthony Clark , 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 Hourglass (1997) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.

Story & Plot Summary: Hourglass

Quick Plot Summary: Hourglass is a Thriller, Romance, Crime film that 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 and narrative structure.

Ending Explained: Hourglass

Ending Breakdown: Hourglass attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to thriller 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Hourglass reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Hourglass Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?

Hourglass incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a thriller, romance, crime 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: Hourglass adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.

Who Should Watch Hourglass?

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: Hourglass

All Cast & Crew →
C. Thomas Howell
C. Thomas HowellMichael Jardine
Sofia Shinas
Sofia ShinasDara Jensen
Anthony Clark
Anthony ClarkJimmy Jardine
Terry Kiser
Terry KiserHenry Jardine
Ed Begley Jr.
Ed Begley Jr.Det. Cecil Dish
Johnny Venokur
Johnny VenokurDavid Ellison
Timothy Bottoms
Timothy BottomsJurgen Brauner
Y. Hero Abe
Y. Hero AbeJuzo Narita
Toshi Toda
Toshi TodaTak Narita
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Where to Watch Hourglass Online?

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Hourglass Parents Guide & Age Rating

1997 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

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

Hourglass is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence, romantic content. It is intended for mature audiences only.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Hourglass is 87 minutes (1h 27m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.5/10, and global collection metrics, Hourglass stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1997 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hourglass worth watching?

Hourglass is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 4.5/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Hourglass parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Hourglass identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Hourglass?

The total duration of Hourglass is 87 minutes, which is approximately 1h 27m long.

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How Hourglass Compares & Where it Ranks

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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
★ 4.5
Hourglass
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