Performance & Direction: Public Enemy Review
Last updated: January 22, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Public Enemy (1998) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of NR. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Public Enemy features a noteworthy lineup led by Don Hughes . Supported by the likes of Sara Matthews and Ike Gingrich , 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 Public Enemy (1998) is negative. With an audience rating of NR, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: Public Enemy
Quick Plot Summary: Public Enemy is a Action, Drama film that delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding 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.
Ending Explained: Public Enemy
Ending Breakdown: Public Enemy attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Public Enemy reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Public Enemy?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Public Enemy
All Cast & Crew →
Public Enemy Parents Guide & Age Rating
1998 AdvisoryWondering about Public Enemy age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Public Enemy is 85 minutes (1h 25m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Public Enemy stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1998 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Public Enemy worth watching?
Public Enemy is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 0/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Public Enemy parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Public Enemy identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Public Enemy?
The total duration of Public Enemy is 85 minutes, which is approximately 1h 25m long.
How Public Enemy Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Public Enemy
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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.
