Performance & Direction: Murder: By Reason of Insanity Review
Last updated: January 31, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Murder: By Reason of Insanity (1985) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 3.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Murder: By Reason of Insanity features a noteworthy lineup led by Candice Bergen . Supported by the likes of Jürgen Prochnow and Héctor Elizondo , 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?
Story & Plot Summary: Murder: By Reason of Insanity
Quick Plot Summary: Murder: By Reason of Insanity is a Crime, Drama, TV Movie film that dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Murder: By Reason of Insanity
Ending Breakdown: Murder: By Reason of Insanity attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 Murder: By Reason of Insanity reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Murder: By Reason of Insanity Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Murder: By Reason of Insanity incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, tv movie 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: Murder: By Reason of Insanity adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Murder: By Reason of Insanity?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Murder: By Reason of Insanity
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Where to Watch Murder: By Reason of Insanity Online?
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Amazon VideoMurder: By Reason of Insanity Parents Guide & Age Rating
1985 AdvisoryWondering about Murder: By Reason of Insanity age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Murder: By Reason of Insanity is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 3.5/10, and global performance metrics, Murder: By Reason of Insanity is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1985 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Murder: By Reason of Insanity worth watching?
Murder: By Reason of Insanity is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 3.5/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Murder: By Reason of Insanity parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Murder: By Reason of Insanity identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Murder: By Reason of Insanity?
The total duration of Murder: By Reason of Insanity is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m 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.
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