Performance & Direction: Lust, Caution Review
Last updated: January 21, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Lust, Caution (2007) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Lust, Caution features a noteworthy lineup led by Tony Leung Chiu-wai . Supported by the likes of Tang Wei and Joan Chen , 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 Lust, Caution (2007) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.2/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Story & Plot Summary: Lust, Caution
Quick Plot Summary: Lust, Caution is a Action, Drama, Romance, Thriller film that delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding 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. During World War II, a secret agent must seduce and assassinate an official who works for the Japanese puppet government in Shanghai. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it. This approach calls everyone and everything into question as the plot unfolds.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- 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 final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Lust, Caution
Ending Breakdown: Lust, Caution resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Lust, Caution reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Lust, Caution?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Lust, Caution
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $15.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $67.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Lust, Caution Budget
The estimated production budget for Lust, Caution is $15.0M. 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.
Top Cast: Lust, Caution
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Lust, Caution Online?
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Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeLust, Caution Parents Guide & Age Rating
2007 AdvisoryWondering about Lust, Caution age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Lust, Caution is 158 minutes (2h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.2/10, and global collection metrics, Lust, Caution stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2007 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lust, Caution worth watching?
Lust, Caution is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Lust, Caution parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Lust, Caution identifies it as NC-17. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Lust, Caution?
The total duration of Lust, Caution is 158 minutes, which is approximately 2h 38m 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.
