Is Listen Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Listen is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Listen Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1996, Listen emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Thriller, Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A young woman thinks one of her neighbors in her apartment building is a serial killer and begins to suspect both her current boyfriend and former girlfriend of being the killer. Unlike standard genre fare, Listen attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Listen features a noteworthy lineup led by Brooke Langton . Supported by the likes of Sarah Buxton and Gordon Currie , 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 Listen (1996) is negative. With an audience rating of 3.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Listen Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Listen is a Crime, Thriller, Horror film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Listen Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Listen attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Listen reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Listen Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Listen incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, thriller, horror 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: Listen adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Listen?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Listen
- Brooke Langton – Sarah Ross
- Sarah Buxton – Krista Barron
- Gordon Currie – Jake Taft
- Andy Romano – Det. Sam Steinmann
- J. H. Wyman – Randy Wilkes
Top Highlights
Brooke LangtonSarah Ross
Sarah BuxtonKrista Barron
Gordon CurrieJake Taft
Andy RomanoDet. Sam Steinmann
J. H. WymanRandy Wilkes
Philip GrangerMax
Frank CassiniRepairman
Iris QuinnFarley's Sister
Evan TylorDet. Louis Penny
Jeff Burnett Erwin Farley
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Listen is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.9/10, and global collection metrics, Listen stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1996 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Listen movie hit or flop?
Listen is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.9/10 and lower collections.
Is Listen worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.9/10, Listen may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Listen online?
Listen 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.
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How Listen Compares & Where it Ranks
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movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
