Is Pulp Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Pulp is likely a skip if you enjoy Mystery movies.
It features a runtime of 95 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Pulp Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1972, Pulp emerges as a significant entry in the Mystery, Crime, Drama, Comedy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A seedy writer of sleazy pulp novels is recruited by a quirky, reclusive ex-actor to help him write his biography at his house in Malta. Unlike standard genre fare, Pulp attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Mystery is often anchored by its ensemble, and Pulp features a noteworthy lineup led by Michael Caine . Supported by the likes of Mickey Rooney and Lionel Stander , 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 Pulp (1972) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Pulp Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Pulp is a Mystery, Crime, Drama, Comedy film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Pulp Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Pulp attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to mystery 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 mystery themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Pulp reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Pulp Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Pulp incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a mystery, crime, drama, comedy 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: Pulp adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Pulp?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Mystery films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Pulp
- Michael Caine – Mickey King
- Mickey Rooney – Preston Gilbert
- Lionel Stander – Ben Dinuccio
- Lizabeth Scott – Princess Betty Cippola
- Nadia Cassini – Liz Adams
Top Highlights
Michael CaineMickey King
Mickey RooneyPreston Gilbert
Lionel StanderBen Dinuccio
Lizabeth ScottPrincess Betty Cippola
Nadia CassiniLiz Adams
Dennis PriceThe Englishman
Al LettieriMiller
Leopoldo TriesteMarcovic
Amerigo TotPartisan
Robert SacchiThe Bogeyman
Where to Watch Pulp Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
FilminParents Guide & Age Rating
Pulp has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Mystery, Crime, Drama, Comedy), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.7/10, and global collection metrics, Pulp stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1972 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pulp movie hit or flop?
Pulp has received mixed reviews with a 5.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Pulp worth watching?
Pulp is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Mystery, Crime, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Pulp online?
Pulp is currently available for streaming on Filmin. You can also check for it on platforms like Filmin depending on your region.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Pulp
How Pulp Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Pulp
Despite an half decent cast, Michael Caine ("King") just can't carry this and after about fifteen minutes, once we have established the premiss, it all just falls into a well trammelled line of mediocrity. He is a sort of penny dreadful style of author, who is offered the opportunity to write the biography of former Hollywood star "Preston Gilbert" (Mickey Rooney) at his Maltese home. Once there, he soon appreciates that his employer is the target of an assassin working for some mobsters. Suffice to say, he doesn't remain a target for long - and it falls to "King" to stay alive himself, whilst completing his story about the eccentric "Gilbert". It had potential, this - but sadly the plot runs out of steam very quickly, the humour is too sparse and contrived and though there are plenty of bit-part characterisations that try to keep the story interesting, it all just withers on the bough. Not terrible, but unremarkable.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with Michael Caine
Heath Ledger: A Tribute
The Director's Notebook: The Cinematic Sleight of Hand of Christopher Nolan
The Dark Knight