Is Jackals Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Jackals is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 86 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Jackals Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2017, Jackals emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Set in the 1980s, an estranged family hires a cult deprogrammer to take back their teenage son from a murderous cult, but find themselves under siege when the cultists surround their cabin, demanding the boy back. Unlike standard genre fare, Jackals attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Jackals features a noteworthy lineup led by Stephen Dorff . Supported by the likes of Johnathon Schaech and Deborah Kara Unger , 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 Jackals (2017) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.4/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Jackals Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Jackals is a Horror, Thriller film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Jackals Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Jackals attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Jackals reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Jackals?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Jackals
- Stephen Dorff – Jimmy Levine
- Johnathon Schaech – Andrew Powell
- Deborah Kara Unger – Kathy Powell
- Nick Roux – Campbell Powell
- Alyssa Julia Smith – Fox Girl
Top Highlights
Stephen DorffJimmy Levine
Johnathon SchaechAndrew Powell
Deborah Kara UngerKathy Powell
Nick RouxCampbell Powell
Alyssa Julia SmithFox Girl
Chelsea RickettsSamantha
Ben SullivanJustin Powell
Jason Scott JenkinsLead Cultist
Cassie HernandezLuisa
Alex KingiMateo
Where to Watch Jackals Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Jackals is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.4/10, and global collection metrics, Jackals stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2017 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jackals movie hit or flop?
Jackals has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Jackals worth watching?
Jackals is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Jackals online?
Jackals is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.
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How Jackals Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Jackals
Visually striking and moderately original, but full of stupid characters making decisions the audience cannot appreciate. An enjoyable enough movie for fans of the horror that just scrapes by with a passing grade for me. _Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
