Pulse

  • 2006
  • PG-13
  • 88m
movieMx RATING
5.1
589
VERDICT
AVERAGE
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Pulse Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict

Last updated: April 11, 2026

movieMx Editorial
📅 Updated: April 11, 2026 🎟️ Verified Screening

Movie Overview: Pulse

MoviePulse
Release Year2006
DirectorJim Sonzero
GenreHorror / Science Fiction / Mystery / Drama
Runtime88 minutes
LanguageEN

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Pulse (2006) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.

🎭 Cast & Character Study

The performances in Pulse are led by Kristen Bell . The supporting cast, including Ian Somerhalder and Christina Milian , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.

💡 movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?

After analyzing the verified data, our assessment of Pulse (2006) is mixed. It has its moments but fails to leave a lasting impression. With a platform rating of 5.1/10, it currently stands as a AVERAGE in our database.

What Works in the Movie

While Pulse does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Horror films.

  • Interesting concept or premise
  • Some entertaining scenes
  • Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights

What Doesn't Work

Despite its strengths, Pulse has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.

  • Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
  • Some predictable plot developments
  • May not appeal to audiences outside the Horror fanbase

Story & Plot Summary: Pulse

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2006, Pulse is a Horror, Science Fiction, Mystery, Drama film directed by Jim Sonzero. The narrative 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 involving Kristen Bell.

Story Breakdown

The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. When the dead discover a means to contact the living through electronic devices, cellphones and computers become open gateways to monstrosities and destruction. Director Jim Sonzero 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: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
  • Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.

Ending Explained: Pulse

Pulse Ending Explained: Directed by Jim Sonzero, Pulse attempts to bring together the film’s narrative threads. The ending highlights the core horror themes developed throughout the film.

The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving Kristen Bell. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.

Key Elements of the Ending

  • Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
  • Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
  • Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the horror themes introduced earlier in the film.

The final moments of Pulse reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.

Who Should Watch Pulse?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Horror films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment

Box Office Collection: Pulse

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $38.0M
Worldwide Gross $29.9M
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Pulse Budget

The estimated production budget for Pulse is $38.0M. 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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Top Cast: Pulse

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Where to Watch Pulse Online?

Streaming Hub

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Apple TV StoreApple TV Store
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Pulse Parents Guide & Age Rating

2006 Advisory
PG-13

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Pulse age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Pulse is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Pulse is 88 minutes (1h 28m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.1/10, and global performance metrics, Pulse is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2006 cinematic calendar.

AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Pulse. Rating: 5.1/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pulse worth watching?

Pulse is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 5.1/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Pulse parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Pulse identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Pulse?

The total duration of Pulse is 88 minutes, which is approximately 1h 28m long.

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How Pulse Compares & Where it Ranks

Critic Reviews for Pulse

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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
★ 5.1
Pulse
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