Performance & Direction: Listening Review
Last updated: January 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Listening (2003) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Listening features a noteworthy lineup led by Paul McGann . Supported by the likes of Frances Barber and Nanette Newman , 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 Listening (2003) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.3/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Story & Plot Summary: Listening
Quick Plot Summary: Listening is a Drama, Romance film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Listening
Ending Breakdown: Listening resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Listening reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Listening?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Top Cast: Listening
All Cast & Crew →
Listening Parents Guide & Age Rating
2003 AdvisoryWondering about Listening age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Listening is 25 minutes (25m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.3/10, and global collection metrics, Listening stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2003 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Listening worth watching?
Listening is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Listening parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Listening identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Listening?
The total duration of Listening is 25 minutes, which is approximately 0h 25m long.
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How Listening Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Listening
Kenneth Branagh is one of my favorite filmmakers. None of his films are flawless, but many are close. the one hit I think many of his _pre_-Hamlet films suffer from a fear of silence. The dialogue is often wall to wall, and when there is a gap, Patrick Doyle's musical scoring loudly fills it. I don't know if this critique is unique to me, but if it is not, then it appears Branagh is aware of - and addressing the issue with this short film. **LISTENING** follows a woman who struggles with the world around her, all high in decibels. To regain her sanity she decides to visit a spa, a reclusive location where verbal conversation is not allowed. She tries to navigate without the daily talk to friends, without the use of a mobile phone. As a short film, there aren't 3 acts to this film. In fact, it is what would only be a third act. Branagh gets his quiet study and ends it with a twist more commonly associated with Rod Serling. As of this writing, the film is not available other than a horrible quality youtube video. I would recommend it for fans of Branagh, although passively.
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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.
