Is Norma Rae Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Norma Rae is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 110 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Norma Rae Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1979, Norma Rae emerges as a significant entry in the Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Norma Rae is a southern textile worker employed in a factory with intolerable working conditions. Unlike standard genre fare, Norma Rae attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Norma Rae features a noteworthy lineup led by Sally Field . Supported by the likes of Beau Bridges and Ron Leibman , 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 Norma Rae (1979) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.2/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Norma Rae Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Norma Rae is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Norma Rae Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Norma Rae resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 Norma Rae reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Norma Rae?
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
Norma Rae Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $4.5M |
| Worldwide Gross | $22.2M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Norma Rae Budget
The estimated production budget for Norma Rae is $4.5M. 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.
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Full Cast & Crew of Norma Rae
- Sally Field – Norma Rae
- Beau Bridges – Sonny
- Ron Leibman – Reuben
- Pat Hingle – Vernon
- Barbara Baxley – Leona
Top Highlights
Sally FieldNorma Rae
Beau BridgesSonny
Ron LeibmanReuben
Pat HingleVernon
Barbara BaxleyLeona
Gail StricklandBonnie Mae
Morgan PaullWayne Billings
Robert BroylesSam Bolen
John CalvinEllis Harper
Booth ColmanDr. Watson
Where to Watch Norma Rae Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TVParents Guide & Age Rating
Norma Rae is rated PG. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.2/10, and global collection metrics, Norma Rae stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1979 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norma Rae movie hit or flop?
Norma Rae is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.2/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is Norma Rae worth watching?
Yes, Norma Rae is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
Where can I watch Norma Rae online?
Norma Rae 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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movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
