Is Shatter Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Shatter is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Shatter Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1974, Shatter emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Thriller, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Shatter, an international contract killer, has been assigned to assassinate the President of a small African country and collect his fee from a bank in the Far East. Unlike standard genre fare, Shatter attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Shatter features a noteworthy lineup led by Stuart Whitman . Supported by the likes of Ti Lung and Lily Li , 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 Shatter (1974) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.6/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Shatter Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Shatter is a Action, Thriller, Crime film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping 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.
Shatter Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Shatter attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Shatter reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Shatter Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Shatter incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, thriller, crime 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: Shatter adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Shatter?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Shatter
- Stuart Whitman – Shatter
- Ti Lung – Tai Pah / Tai Kung
- Lily Li – Mai Mee
- Peter Cushing – Paul Rattwood
- Anton Diffring – Hans Leber
Top Highlights
Stuart WhitmanShatter
Ti LungTai Pah / Tai Kung
Lily LiMai Mee
Peter CushingPaul Rattwood
Anton DiffringHans Leber
Ko HungJapanese karate fighter
Keung HonKorean taekwondo fighter
James Ma Chim-SiThai Boxer
Lau Nga-YingHans Leber's Girl
Lee Hoi-SangReferee Hanson Lee
Where to Watch Shatter Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with AdsParents Guide & Age Rating
Shatter is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.6/10, and global collection metrics, Shatter stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1974 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shatter movie hit or flop?
Shatter has received mixed reviews with a 5.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Shatter worth watching?
Shatter is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Thriller, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Shatter online?
Shatter is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads 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.
