Is Madigan Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Madigan is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 101 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Madigan Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1968, Madigan emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Drama, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of NYPD detectives Bonaro and Madigan lose their guns to fugitive Barney Benesch. Unlike standard genre fare, Madigan 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 Madigan features a noteworthy lineup led by Richard Widmark . Supported by the likes of Henry Fonda and Inger Stevens , 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 Madigan (1968) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Madigan Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Madigan is a Crime, Drama, Thriller 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.
Madigan Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Madigan concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. 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 Madigan reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Madigan Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Madigan incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, thriller 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: Madigan adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Madigan?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Madigan
- Richard Widmark – Det. Daniel Madigan
- Henry Fonda – Commissioner Anthony X. Russell
- Inger Stevens – Julia Madigan
- Harry Guardino – Det. Rocco Bonaro
- James Whitmore – Chief Inspector Charles Kane
Top Highlights
Richard WidmarkDet. Daniel Madigan
Henry FondaCommissioner Anthony X. Russell
Inger StevensJulia Madigan
Harry GuardinoDet. Rocco Bonaro
James WhitmoreChief Inspector Charles Kane
Susan ClarkTricia Bentley
Michael DunnMidget Castiglione
Steve IhnatBarney Benesch
Don StroudHughie
Sheree NorthJonesy
Where to Watch Madigan Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Madigan is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.1/10, and global collection metrics, Madigan stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1968 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Madigan movie hit or flop?
Madigan has received mixed reviews with a 6.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Madigan worth watching?
Madigan is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Madigan online?
Madigan 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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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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