Is Malevolence Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Malevolence is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Malevolence Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2004, Malevolence emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Horror, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of It's ten years after the kidnapping of Martin Bristol. Unlike standard genre fare, Malevolence 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 Malevolence features a noteworthy lineup led by Jay Cohen . Supported by the likes of R. Brandon Johnson and Samantha Dark , 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 Malevolence (2004) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.2/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Malevolence Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Malevolence is a Crime, Horror, 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.
Malevolence Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Malevolence 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 Malevolence reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Malevolence Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Malevolence incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, horror, 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: Malevolence adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Malevolence?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Malevolence Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $200.0K |
| Worldwide Gross | $346.1K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Malevolence Budget
The estimated production budget for Malevolence is $200.0K. 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.
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Malevolence
- Jay Cohen – Martin Bristol
- R. Brandon Johnson – Julian
- Samantha Dark – Samantha Harrison
- Heather Magee – Marylin
- Richard Glover – Kurt
Top Highlights
Jay CohenMartin Bristol
R. Brandon JohnsonJulian
Samantha DarkSamantha Harrison
Heather MageeMarylin
Richard GloverKurt
Courtney BertoloneCourtney Harrison
John Richard IngramSheriff Riley
Keith ChambersMax
Kevin McKelveySpecial Agent William Perkins
Lenn GrossFBI Agent Daley
Where to Watch Malevolence Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Malevolence has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Crime, Horror, Thriller), it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.2/10, and global collection metrics, Malevolence stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2004 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malevolence movie hit or flop?
Malevolence has received mixed reviews with a 5.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Malevolence worth watching?
Malevolence is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Horror, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Malevolence online?
Malevolence 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.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Malevolence
How Malevolence Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Malevolence
I get what writer-director (and producer, editor, composer) Stevan Mena was trying to do (at least I think): an homage to 1980s slashers right down to the killer wearing a burlap-like sack over his head and a score straight out of Friday the 13th. For an independent horror movie, wasn't terrible and some of the acting was okay (more or less) but the ADR was laughably bad and there was nothing all that memorable. Passably entertainment but not much more than that.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with Jay Cohen
View full filmography
Part of the Malevolence Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise