Is Stigma Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Stigma is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 93 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Stigma Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1972, Stigma emerges as a significant entry in the Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A black doctor ex-convict returns to the all-white town he knows as home and discovers a deadly disease threatening the citizens. Unlike standard genre fare, Stigma attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Stigma features a noteworthy lineup led by Philip Michael Thomas . Supported by the likes of Harlan Cary Poe and Josie Johnson , 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 Stigma (1972) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.6/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Stigma Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Stigma is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Stigma Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Stigma attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Stigma reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Stigma?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Stigma
- Philip Michael Thomas – Dr. Calvin Crosse
- Harlan Cary Poe – Bill Waco
- Josie Johnson – D.D. Whitehead
- Peter H. Clune – Sheriff Whitehead
- William Magerman – Jeremy
Top Highlights
Philip Michael ThomasDr. Calvin Crosse
Harlan Cary PoeBill Waco
Josie JohnsonD.D. Whitehead
Peter H. CluneSheriff Whitehead
William MagermanJeremy
Connie Van EssTassie
"Cousin Brucie" Morrow"Cousin" Bruce Morrow
Raina Barrett
Kevin Andre
Rhonda Fultz
Where to Watch Stigma Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Stigma is rated R. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.6/10, and global collection metrics, Stigma stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1972 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stigma movie hit or flop?
Stigma is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.6/10 and lower collections.
Is Stigma worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.6/10, Stigma may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Stigma online?
Stigma may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Stigma Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Stigma
**_The kiss of death on a Massachusetts Island_** A young black doctor (Philip Michael Thomas), who made the mistake of performing an abortion that went wrong, travels to an isolated coastal community for a gig with a mentor whereupon he faces unforeseen challenges, including prejudice and a mysterious outbreak. “Stigma” (1972) is a drama with some seedy aspects despite taking place in a traditional white bread community. While not a blaxploitation flick, the protagonist angle was obviously influenced by that genre, à la the soon-to-come “The Beast Must Die.” The set-up is reminiscent of “In the Heat of the Night” with some elements that would influence “The Wicker Man,” which (surprisingly) wouldn’t debut until the next year. Then there’s the youthful “free love” aspect of, say, “The Harrad Experiment,” which also came out the next year. The film features a little comedy, an anti-racist message, a bit o’ softcore nudity and some thrills in the last act, but the public service announcement concerning VD is laid on a little too thick. Less is more. Still, Philip Michael Thomas is very good as the protagonist and seems older than 22 (which was his age during shooting). At the end of the day, it’s an interesting window into life in America in 1971, when the flick was shot. The zenith of the “free love” counterculture era was just two years prior and “Stigma” shockingly shows the natural consequences of that mentality and lifestyle. The writer/director took a maverick Indie approach to the material and should've gone on to greatness, but he didn't, unfortunately. Thankfully, we have this unique flick to remember him by. The movie runs 1 hour, 33 minutes, and was shot entirely in Massachusetts—Cambridge, Boston, Cape Cod (island town) and Nantucket. GRADE: B-
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