Murder by Phone

  • 1982
  • R
  • 90m
movieMx RATING
5.2/10$22.0
VERDICT
AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Murder by Phone Review

Last updated: January 23, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: January 23, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Murder by Phone (1982) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Science Fiction.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and Murder by Phone features a noteworthy lineup led by Richard Chamberlain . Supported by the likes of John Houseman and Sara Botsford , 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 Murder by Phone (1982) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.2/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.

Story & Plot Summary: Murder by Phone

Quick Plot Summary: Murder by Phone is a Science Fiction, Thriller, Horror, Mystery film that explores futuristic concepts and technological possibilities while examining humanity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.

Ending Explained: Murder by Phone

Ending Breakdown: Murder by Phone attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to science fiction 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 science fiction themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Murder by Phone reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Murder by Phone?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Science Fiction films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Top Cast: Murder by Phone

All Cast & Crew →
John Houseman
John HousemanStanley Markowitz
Sara Botsford
Sara BotsfordRidley Taylor
Robin Gammell
Robin GammellNoah Clayton
Gary Reineke
Gary ReinekeLt. Meara
Barry Morse
Barry MorseFred Waites
Alan Scarfe
Alan ScarfeJohn Websole
James B. Douglas
James B. DouglasJack Gilsdorf
Ken Pogue
Ken PogueFil Thorner
Neil Munro
Neil MunroWinters
Jefferson Mappin
Jefferson MappinPhotographer
Tom Butler
Tom ButlerDetective Tamblyn
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Murder by Phone Parents Guide & Age Rating

1982 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Murder by Phone age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Murder by Phone is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Murder by Phone is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.2/10, and global collection metrics, Murder by Phone stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1982 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Murder by Phone worth watching?

Murder by Phone is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies. It has a verified rating of 5.2/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Murder by Phone parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Murder by Phone identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Murder by Phone?

The total duration of Murder by Phone is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.

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How Murder by Phone Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Murder by Phone

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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.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.2
Murder by Phone
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/murder-by-phone-81887" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 5.2</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Murder by Phone</div></div></a>

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