In the Shadow of the Moon

  • 2019
  • R
  • 115m
movieMx RATING
6.2/101.5K
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: In the Shadow of the Moon Review

Last updated: February 6, 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: February 6, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is In the Shadow of the Moon (2019) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Science Fiction.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and In the Shadow of the Moon features a noteworthy lineup led by Boyd Holbrook . Supported by the likes of Cleopatra Coleman and Michael C. Hall , 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 In the Shadow of the Moon (2019) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.2/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Result: ABOVE AVERAGE
Based on verified audience sentiment and box office trajectory, In the Shadow of the Moon stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE.

Story & Plot Summary: In the Shadow of the Moon

Quick Plot Summary: In the Shadow of the Moon is a Science Fiction, Thriller film that explores futuristic concepts and technological possibilities while examining humanity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.

Story Breakdown

The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. In 1988, Philadelphia police officer Thomas "Locke" Lockhart, hungry to become a detective, begins tracking a serial killer whose crimes defy scientific explanation. When the killer mysteriously resurfaces nine years later, Locke's obsession with finding the truth threatens to destroy his career, his family, and possibly his sanity. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.

Narrative Structure

  • Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
  • Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
  • Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.

Ending Explained: In the Shadow of the Moon

Ending Breakdown: In the Shadow of the Moon concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to science fiction 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 science fiction themes established throughout the runtime.

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

Who Should Watch In the Shadow of the Moon?

Worth Watching If You:

  • Enjoy Science Fiction films and don't mind familiar tropes
  • Are a fan of the cast or director
  • Want solid genre entertainment
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Top Cast: In the Shadow of the Moon

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Where to Watch In the Shadow of the Moon Online?

Streaming Hub

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In the Shadow of the Moon Parents Guide & Age Rating

2019 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

Wondering about In the Shadow of the Moon age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

In the Shadow of the Moon is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of In the Shadow of the Moon is 115 minutes (1h 55m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.2/10, and global performance metrics, In the Shadow of the Moon is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2019 cinematic calendar.

ABOVE AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for In the Shadow of the Moon. Rating: 6.2/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is In the Shadow of the Moon worth watching?

In the Shadow of the Moon is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies. It has a verified rating of 6.2/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find In the Shadow of the Moon parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for In the Shadow of the Moon identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of In the Shadow of the Moon?

The total duration of In the Shadow of the Moon is 115 minutes, which is approximately 1h 55m 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.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.2
In the Shadow of the Moon
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