RATING★ 4.5/10
VERDICT AVERAGE
Inspector Gadget (1999) movie backdrop
Inspector Gadget (1999) movie poster

Inspector Gadget Hit or Flop?

Rating
4.5/10
🎯Verdict
AVERAGE
👍 GOOD
  • Engaging Storyline
  • Strong Performances
👎 BAD
  • Pacing issues in mid
  • Predictable ending
199978 minAction, Adventure, Comedy, Family
Audience VerdictAVERAGE
Box Office ClassStandard

Inspector Gadget

Inspector Gadget Movie Hit or Flop?

AVERAGE

Verdict:Inspector Gadget is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 4.5/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family genre.

Is Inspector Gadget Worth Watching?

Answer: Maybe not, Inspector Gadget is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.

It features a runtime of 78 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

4.5/10 1,285 votes
78Minutes
1999Release Year
Visual Story
Advertisement

Inspector Gadget Review

Last updated: January 18, 2026

🎬 Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations

Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1999, Inspector Gadget emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of John Brown is a bumbling but well-intentioned security guard who is badly injured in an explosion planned by an evil mastermind. Unlike standard genre fare, Inspector Gadget attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Inspector Gadget features a noteworthy lineup led by Matthew Broderick . Supported by the likes of Rupert Everett and Joely Fisher , 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 Inspector Gadget (1999) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.

Inspector Gadget Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline

Quick Plot Summary: Inspector Gadget is a Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.

Story Breakdown

The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. John Brown is a bumbling but well-intentioned security guard who is badly injured in an explosion planned by an evil mastermind. He is taken to a laboratory, where Brenda, a leading robotics surgeon, replaces his damaged limbs with state-of-the-art gadgets and tools. Named "Inspector Gadget" by the press, John -- along with his niece, Penny, and her trusty dog, Brain -- uses his new powers to discover who was behind the explosion. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.

Narrative Structure

  • Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
  • Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
  • Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.

Inspector Gadget Ending Explained & Final Analysis

Ending Breakdown: Inspector Gadget attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.

The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.

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

Who Should Watch Inspector Gadget?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Action films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment

Inspector Gadget Box Office Collection

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $75.0M
Worldwide Gross $134.4M
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Inspector Gadget Budget

The estimated production budget for Inspector Gadget is $75.0M. 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 Inspector Gadget

  • Matthew Broderick – John Brown / Inspector Gadget / Robo Gadget
  • Rupert Everett – Sanford Scolex / Dr. Claw
  • Joely Fisher – Brenda / Robobrenda
  • Michelle Trachtenberg – Penny
  • Andy Dick – Kramer

Top Highlights

Matthew Broderick
Matthew BroderickJohn Brown / Inspector Gadget / Robo Gadget
Rupert Everett
Rupert EverettSanford Scolex / Dr. Claw
Joely Fisher
Joely FisherBrenda / Robobrenda
Michelle Trachtenberg
Michelle TrachtenbergPenny
Andy Dick
Andy DickKramer
Cheri Oteri
Cheri OteriMayor Wilson
Mike Hagerty
Mike HagertySikes
Dabney Coleman
Dabney ColemanChief Quimby
D.L. Hughley
D.L. HughleyGadgetmobile (voice)
René Auberjonois
René AuberjonoisArtemus Bradford

Where to Watch Inspector Gadget Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

Google Play MoviesGoogle Play Movies
YouTubeYouTube

🏷️ Buy on

Google Play MoviesGoogle Play Movies
YouTubeYouTube

Parents Guide & Age Rating

PG
Inspector Gadget is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences. It is generally suitable for all ages.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.5/10, and global collection metrics, Inspector Gadget stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1999 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Inspector Gadget movie hit or flop?

Inspector Gadget is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.

Is Inspector Gadget worth watching?

Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, Inspector Gadget may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.

Where can I watch Inspector Gadget online?

Inspector Gadget 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 Inspector Gadget

How Inspector Gadget Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Inspector Gadget

🛡️

movieMx Verified

This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.

Advertisement
Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 4.5
Inspector Gadget
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/inspector-gadget-332" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 4.5</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Inspector Gadget</div></div></a>

Share this rating on your blog or website. Includes a 100% organic backlink.

More with Matthew Broderick

View full filmography

Part of the Inspector Gadget Collection

Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.

View Full Franchise