Performance & Direction: Smokin' Aces Review
Last updated: January 21, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Smokin' Aces (2006) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Smokin' Aces features a noteworthy lineup led by Ryan Reynolds . Supported by the likes of Andy Garcia and Martin Henderson , 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 Smokin' Aces (2006) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: Smokin' Aces
Quick Plot Summary: Smokin' Aces is a Action, Comedy, Crime, Thriller film that delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding 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.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. When a Las Vegas performer-turned-snitch named Buddy Israel decides to turn state's evidence and testify against the mob, it seems that a whole lot of people would like to make sure he's no longer breathing. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it. This approach calls everyone and everything into question as the plot unfolds.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- 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 confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Smokin' Aces
Ending Breakdown: Smokin' Aces concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. 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 Smokin' Aces reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Smokin' Aces Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Smokin' Aces incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, comedy, crime, thriller 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: Smokin' Aces adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Smokin' Aces?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Smokin' Aces
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $17.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $57.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Smokin' Aces Budget
The estimated production budget for Smokin' Aces is $17.0M. 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.
Top Cast: Smokin' Aces
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Smokin' Aces Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeSmokin' Aces Parents Guide & Age Rating
2006 AdvisoryWondering about Smokin' Aces age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Smokin' Aces is 109 minutes (1h 49m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.5/10, and global collection metrics, Smokin' Aces stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2006 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smokin' Aces worth watching?
Smokin' Aces is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Smokin' Aces parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Smokin' Aces identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Smokin' Aces?
The total duration of Smokin' Aces is 109 minutes, which is approximately 1h 49m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Smokin' Aces
How Smokin' Aces Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Smokin' Aces
I don't think I can tell you that _Smokin' Aces_ is **good**. But I have seen the movie on three seperate occasions in the past thirteen years, roughly evenly spread apart. And each time I have not only enjoyed it, I enjoyed it more than the last time. This movie is **very** dumb. But fast and fun and oh boy what a cast. _Final rating:★★★½ - I really liked it. Would strongly recommend you give it your time._
Sometimes wild, sometimes confusing action-thriller that boasts a great cast, but in the end, this wasn't a Carnahan movie that really did it for me. **2.75/5**
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.
Useful Links
More with Ryan Reynolds
View full filmography
Part of the Smokin' Aces Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise