Is Pulse Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Pulse is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 119 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Pulse Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2001, Pulse emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Thriller, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of In the immense city of Tokyo, the darkness of the afterlife lures some of its inhabitants who are desperately trying to escape the sadness and isolation of the modern world. Unlike standard genre fare, Pulse attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Pulse features a noteworthy lineup led by Kumiko Aso . Supported by the likes of Haruhiko Kato and Koyuki , 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 Pulse (2001) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Pulse Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Pulse is a Horror, Thriller, Mystery film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. In the immense city of Tokyo, the darkness of the afterlife lures some of its inhabitants who are desperately trying to escape the sadness and isolation of the modern world. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- 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 final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Pulse Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Pulse concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to horror 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Pulse reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Pulse?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Horror films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a few scares and creepy atmosphere
Pulse Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $25.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $318.5K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Pulse Budget
The estimated production budget for Pulse is $25.0M. 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 Pulse
- Kumiko Aso – Michi Kudo
- Haruhiko Kato – Ryosuke Kawashima
- Koyuki – Harue Karasawa
- Kurume Arisaka – Junko Sasano
- Masatoshi Matsuo – Toshio Yabe
Top Highlights
Kumiko AsoMichi Kudo
Haruhiko KatoRyosuke Kawashima
KoyukiHarue Karasawa
Kurume ArisakaJunko Sasano
Masatoshi MatsuoToshio Yabe
Shinji TakedaYoshizaki
Kenji MizuhashiTaguchi
Shun SugataBoss
Ken FurusawaConvenience Store Employee
Teruo OnoDoroningen
Where to Watch Pulse Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
AMC Plus Apple TV Channel 
AMC+ Amazon Channel
AMC+
Philo
Magnolia Selects Amazon Channel
Monsters and Nightmares Amazon Channel
Warriors and Gangsters Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Pulse is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.7/10, and global collection metrics, Pulse stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2001 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pulse movie hit or flop?
Pulse has received mixed reviews with a 6.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Pulse worth watching?
Pulse is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Thriller, Mystery movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Pulse online?
Pulse is currently available for streaming on AMC Plus Apple TV Channel . You can also check for it on platforms like AMC Plus Apple TV Channel , AMC+ Amazon Channel, AMC+, Philo, Magnolia Selects Amazon Channel, Monsters and Nightmares Amazon Channel, Warriors and Gangsters Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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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.
