Is National Security Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, National Security is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 89 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
National Security Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2003, National Security emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Comedy, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Earl Montgomery, a bombastic police academy reject, and Hank Rafferty, a disgraced, mild-mannered cop, can't seem to escape each other. Unlike standard genre fare, National Security attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and National Security features a noteworthy lineup led by Martin Lawrence . Supported by the likes of Steve Zahn and Colm Feore , 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 National Security (2003) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.0/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
National Security Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: National Security is a Action, Comedy, Crime film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. Earl Montgomery, a bombastic police academy reject, and Hank Rafferty, a disgraced, mild-mannered cop, can't seem to escape each other. They met on opposite sides of the law during a routine traffic stop that escalated out of control; now as lowly security guards they're thrown together to bust a smuggling operation. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
National Security Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: National Security concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of National Security reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
National Security Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
National Security incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, comedy, crime 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: National Security adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch National Security?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
National Security Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $50.1M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
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Full Cast & Crew of National Security
- Martin Lawrence – Earl Montgomery
- Steve Zahn – Hank Rafferty
- Colm Feore – Detective Frank McDuff
- Bill Duke – Lieutenant Washington
- Eric Roberts – Nash
Top Highlights
Martin LawrenceEarl Montgomery
Steve ZahnHank Rafferty
Colm FeoreDetective Frank McDuff
Bill DukeLieutenant Washington
Eric RobertsNash
Timothy BusfieldCharlie Reed
Robinne LeeDenise
Brett CullenHeston
Ken LernerHank's Lawyer
Matt McCoyRobert Barton
Where to Watch National Security Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVParents Guide & Age Rating
National Security is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, National Security stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2003 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is National Security movie hit or flop?
National Security has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is National Security worth watching?
National Security is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Comedy, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch National Security online?
National Security 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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Critic Reviews for National Security
'National Security' isn't terribly adrift from being a standard Martin Lawrence flick, which would be a compliment as he is an actor I've mildly enjoyed in said sorta roles down the years. This one just doesn't work, which is a shame as I also like co-star Steve Zahn in other films too. Zahn feels miscast, Lawrence is the one that stops this from truly falling through the floor. There are good jokes in there, albeit via the overly relied upon race humour, and it features some solid practical effects/stunts. I just never really got into it, nor did I sense that the leads were a satisfactory match for each other.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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