Performance & Direction: Missing Review
Last updated: January 20, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Missing (1982) 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 Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Missing features a noteworthy lineup led by Jack Lemmon . Supported by the likes of Sissy Spacek and Melanie Mayron , 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 Missing (1982) 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: Missing
Quick Plot Summary: Missing is a Drama, Mystery, Thriller 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: Missing
Ending Breakdown: Missing resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Missing reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Missing Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Missing uses real-world events as narrative inspiration. As a drama, mystery, thriller film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Missing adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Missing?
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
Box Office Collection: Missing
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $9.6M |
| Worldwide Gross | $14.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Missing Budget
The estimated production budget for Missing is $9.6M. 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: Missing
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Where to Watch Missing Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoMissing Parents Guide & Age Rating
1982 AdvisoryWondering about Missing age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Missing is 123 minutes (2h 3m). 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, Missing stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1982 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Missing worth watching?
Missing is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Missing parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Missing identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Missing?
The total duration of Missing is 123 minutes, which is approximately 2h 3m long.
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How Missing Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Missing
This is quite an intense political thriller from Oscar winning Costa-Gavras that sees "Ed Horman" (Jack Lemmon) and his daughter-in-law "Beth" (Sissy Spacek) travel to Chile to try to find his writer son who has become caught up in the coup that has deposed President Allende. It is soon clear that the inherently patriotic Horman couple are not getting the support they would have expected from their consular officials and as the story develops we discover how little they actually knew their son and also how the confidence in their own government can be shaken to the core. Lemmon's frustration is palpable as he becomes more and more desperate. Both he and Spacek were deservedly Oscar nominated for their performances in this gripping drama. I could have done with more of a conclusion, but perhaps it is better as it is...?
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.
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