Performance & Direction: Subterfuge Review
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Subterfuge (1968) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Subterfuge features a noteworthy lineup led by Gene Barry . Supported by the likes of Joan Collins and Richard Todd , 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 Subterfuge (1968) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.7/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Story & Plot Summary: Subterfuge
Quick Plot Summary: Subterfuge is a Thriller film that builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Subterfuge
Ending Breakdown: Subterfuge attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to thriller 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Subterfuge reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Subterfuge?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Subterfuge
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Subterfuge Online?
Streaming HubSubterfuge Parents Guide & Age Rating
1968 AdvisoryWondering about Subterfuge age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Subterfuge is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.7/10, and global performance metrics, Subterfuge is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1968 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Subterfuge worth watching?
Subterfuge is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 4.7/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Subterfuge parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Subterfuge identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Subterfuge?
The total duration of Subterfuge is 89 minutes, which is approximately 1h 29m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Subterfuge
How Subterfuge Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Subterfuge
Gene Barry is "Donovan", a CIA agent sent to London to help uncover a cold war espionage ring. He is pretty much captured upon arrival, but luckily manages to quickly escape from his country house prison with the help of "Peter Langley" (Tom Adams) and together with the assistance of "Col. Redmayne" (Richard Todd) they embark on an investigation to find the spy! Most of this reminded me of an episode of "Bewitched" only it wasn't anyone's nose that was twitching. The production is cheap, the script woeful and the performances might legitimately be described as truly worthy of the occasional appearance from Joan Collins ("Anne") at her most glamorously sterile. The plot plods along with an inevitability to it that leaves no room for any suspense, and the fight scenes are so expertly choreographed as to be little more than gymnastics with tomato sauce. London in the late 1960s was a colourful, bustling city and the film at least manages to convey some of that vibrancy, but otherwise this is really just duff.
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.
