Performance & Direction: Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke Review
Last updated: February 6, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke (1970) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Documentary.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Documentary is often anchored by its ensemble, and Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke features a noteworthy lineup led by Shirley Clarke . Supported by the likes of Jacques Rivette and Yoko Ono , 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?
Story & Plot Summary: Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke
Quick Plot Summary: Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke is a Documentary 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.
Ending Explained: Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke
Ending Breakdown: Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to documentary resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, 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 documentary themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Documentaries films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke
All Cast & Crew →Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke Parents Guide & Age Rating
1970 AdvisoryWondering about Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke is 55 minutes (55m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.0/10, and global performance metrics, Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1970 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke worth watching?
Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies. It has a verified rating of 5/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke?
The total duration of Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke is 55 minutes, which is approximately 0h 55m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke
How Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Rome Is Burning: Portrait of Shirley Clarke
No reviews found for this filter.
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.












