Is Supernova Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Supernova is likely a skip if you enjoy Science Fiction movies.
It features a runtime of 91 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Supernova Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2000, Supernova emerges as a significant entry in the Science Fiction, Horror, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Set in the 22nd century, when a battered salvage ship sends out a distress signal, the seasoned crew of the rescue hospital ship Nova-17 responds. Unlike standard genre fare, Supernova attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and Supernova features a noteworthy lineup led by James Spader . Supported by the likes of Angela Bassett and Robert Forster , 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 Supernova (2000) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Supernova Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Supernova is a Science Fiction, Horror, Thriller film that explores futuristic concepts and technological possibilities while examining humanity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Supernova Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Supernova attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to science fiction 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 science fiction themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Supernova reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Supernova?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Science Fiction films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Supernova Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $90.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $14.8M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Supernova Budget
The estimated production budget for Supernova is $90.0M. 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.
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Full Cast & Crew of Supernova
- James Spader – Nick Vanzant
- Angela Bassett – Dr. Kaela Evers
- Robert Forster – A.J. Marley
- Lou Diamond Phillips – Yerzy Penalosa
- Peter Facinelli – Karl Larson
Top Highlights
James SpaderNick Vanzant
Angela BassettDr. Kaela Evers
Robert ForsterA.J. Marley
Lou Diamond PhillipsYerzy Penalosa
Peter FacinelliKarl Larson
Robin TunneyDanika Lund
Wilson CruzBenj Sotomejor
Eddy Rice Jr.Flyboy
Knox WhiteTroy Larson
Kerrigan MahanTroy Larson (voice)
Where to Watch Supernova Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
MGM Plus Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
Supernova is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.9/10, and global collection metrics, Supernova stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2000 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Supernova movie hit or flop?
Supernova is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.9/10 and lower collections.
Is Supernova worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.9/10, Supernova may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Supernova online?
Supernova is currently available for streaming on MGM Plus Amazon Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like MGM Plus Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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How Supernova Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Supernova
Heal thyself, doctor. The back story to Supernova is actually more interesting than the studio cut of the film that is available to view. Director's coming and going, one (Walter Hill) taking his name off the credits, butchery by studio interference, different endings, different planned thematics, shelved for two years and etc. Supernova was a messy production and sadly it shows, making Walter Hill's original cut (unavailable) the "Magnificent Ambersons" of the sci-fi genre. Plot, in the skew-whiff edited version we are fed here, is basically a riff on Ridley Scott's Alien. Space dudes up in space take on board a too good to be true hitch-hiker dude, which is a bad idea. Sadly it's all very dull, yet strangely you can see that in amongst the mess, and the often used diversion tactic of Robin Tunney's breasts, there was a very good film here. Brains and effects work to light up the screen, some sexy sizzle marrying up to the tension up there in the galaxy, James Spader on wonderfully broody and heroically damaged form, and some belting deleted scenes on the DVD. But, it's not to be, so the studio should be ashamed of themselves, even if it isn't quite the ultimate stinker it has been painted as. But! Super it is not, in any shape or form. 5/10
Supernova feels like a wasted opportunity wrapped in decent visuals. The directing is all over the place, which makes sense given the messy production history, and it really shows. The pacing drags, making even the short runtime feel longer than it should. You can tell there were attempts to build tension or mystery, but the script just doesn’t give it enough fuel. The story lacks depth, and the characters feel like cardboard cutouts drifting through space. It tries to be a mix of sci-fi and psychological thriller, but it never really commits to either, leaving it floating in this weird limbo. On the plus side, the cinematography is surprisingly solid in parts. There are a few beautiful shots of space and the sun that really stand out, and the set design had potential. The acting isn’t terrible, but the cast doesn’t have much to work with, and it feels like everyone’s just going through the motions. As for the score and sound design, nothing really stood out, which isn’t great for a sci-fi film that should be using sound to build atmosphere. Overall, it’s a slow, visually decent film that struggles to say or do anything memorable.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
