Ode to Billy Joe

  • 1976
  • PG
  • 105m
movieMx RATING
6.1/10$33.0
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Ode to Billy Joe Review

Last updated: January 22, 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 22, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Ode to Billy Joe (1976) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.1/10. 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 Ode to Billy Joe features a noteworthy lineup led by Robby Benson . Supported by the likes of Glynnis O'Connor and Joan Hotchkis , 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 Ode to Billy Joe (1976) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.

Story & Plot Summary: Ode to Billy Joe

Quick Plot Summary: Ode to Billy Joe is a Drama, Romance 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: Ode to Billy Joe

Ending Breakdown: Ode to Billy Joe concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents 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 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Ode to Billy Joe reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Ode to Billy Joe?

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: Ode to Billy Joe

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $1.1M
Worldwide Gross $27.0M
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Ode to Billy Joe Budget

The estimated production budget for Ode to Billy Joe is $1.1M. 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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Top Cast: Ode to Billy Joe

All Cast & Crew →
Robby Benson
Robby BensonBilly Joe McAllister
Glynnis O'Connor
Glynnis O'ConnorBobbie Lee Hartley
Joan Hotchkis
Joan HotchkisAnna 'Mama' Hartley
Terence Goodman
Terence GoodmanJames Hartley
Sandy McPeak
Sandy McPeakGlenn 'Papa' Hartley
James Best
James BestDewey Barksdale
Becky Bowen
Becky BowenBecky Thompson
Simpson Hemphill
Simpson HemphillBrother Taylor
Rebecca Jernigan
Rebecca JerniganMrs. Thompson
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Where to Watch Ode to Billy Joe Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV
Google Play MoviesGoogle Play Movies
YouTubeYouTube
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🏷️ Buy on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV
Google Play MoviesGoogle Play Movies
YouTubeYouTube
Fandango At HomeFandango At Home

Ode to Billy Joe Parents Guide & Age Rating

1976 Advisory
PG

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Ode to Billy Joe age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Ode to Billy Joe is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains romantic content. It is generally suitable for all ages.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Ode to Billy Joe is 105 minutes (1h 45m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.1/10, and global collection metrics, Ode to Billy Joe stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1976 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ode to Billy Joe worth watching?

Ode to Billy Joe is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.1/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Ode to Billy Joe parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Ode to Billy Joe identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Ode to Billy Joe?

The total duration of Ode to Billy Joe is 105 minutes, which is approximately 1h 45m 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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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.1
Ode to Billy Joe
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