RATING★ 6.8/10
VERDICT HIT
Primer (2004) movie backdrop
Primer (2004) movie poster

Primer Hit or Flop?

Rating
6.8/10
🎯Verdict
HIT
👍 GOOD
  • Engaging Storyline
  • Strong Performances
👎 BAD
  • Pacing issues in mid
  • Predictable ending
200477 minScience Fiction, Drama, Thriller
Audience VerdictHIT
Box Office ClassStandard

Primer

Primer Movie Hit or Flop?

HIT

Verdict:Primer is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.8/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller genre.

Is Primer Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, Primer is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies.

It features a runtime of 77 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

6.8/10 2,331 votes
77Minutes
2004Release Year
Visual Story
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Primer Review

Last updated: January 18, 2026

🎬 Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations

Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2004, Primer emerges as a significant entry in the Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A group of fledgling inventors discover a complex method to manipulate reality. Unlike standard genre fare, Primer attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and Primer features a noteworthy lineup led by Shane Carruth . Supported by the likes of David Sullivan and Casey Gooden , 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 Primer (2004) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.

Primer Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline

Quick Plot Summary: Primer is a Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller 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.

Story Breakdown

The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. A group of fledgling inventors discover a complex method to manipulate reality. At first, they successfully game the stock market with it, but the consequences of the invention start to catch up with them. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.

Narrative Structure

  • Opening Hook: The film establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
  • 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 climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.

Primer Ending Explained & Final Analysis

Ending Breakdown: Primer concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. 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 Primer reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Primer?

Worth Watching If You:

  • Enjoy Science Fiction films and don't mind familiar tropes
  • Are a fan of the cast or director
  • Want solid genre entertainment

Primer Box Office Collection

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $7.0K
Worldwide Gross $545.4K
Trade Verdict CLEAN HIT

Primer Budget

The estimated production budget for Primer is $7.0K. 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 Primer

  • Shane Carruth – Aaron
  • David Sullivan – Abe
  • Casey Gooden – Robert
  • Anand Upadhyaya – Philip
  • Carrie Crawford – Kara

Top Highlights

Shane Carruth
Shane CarruthAaron
David Sullivan
David SullivanAbe
Casey Gooden
Casey GoodenRobert
Anand Upadhyaya
Anand UpadhyayaPhilip
Carrie Crawford
Carrie CrawfordKara
Jay Butler
Jay ButlerMetalshop Worker
John Carruth
John CarruthMan On Couch #1
Juan Tapia
Juan TapiaMan On Couch #2
Ashley Warren
Ashley WarrenHostess
Samantha Thomson
Samantha ThomsonRachel Granger

Where to Watch Primer Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV
Google Play MoviesGoogle Play Movies
YouTubeYouTube

🏷️ Buy on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV
Google Play MoviesGoogle Play Movies
YouTubeYouTube

Parents Guide & Age Rating

PG-13
Primer is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, Primer stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2004 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Primer movie hit or flop?

Primer has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Primer worth watching?

Primer is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.

Where can I watch Primer online?

Primer 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.

Best Movies to Watch if you liked Primer

How Primer Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Primer

🛡️

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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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.8
Primer
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/primer-14337" 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;">★ 6.8</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Primer</div></div></a>

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More with Shane Carruth

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