Performance & Direction: The Inquiry Review
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Inquiry (1986) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Inquiry features a noteworthy lineup led by Keith Carradine . Supported by the likes of Harvey Keitel and Phyllis Logan , 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 The Inquiry (1986) is generally positive. With an audience rating of 6.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: The Inquiry
Quick Plot Summary: The Inquiry is a Crime, Drama, History film that dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: The Inquiry
Ending Breakdown: The Inquiry concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Inquiry reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Inquiry Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Inquiry draws heavily from documented historical records. As a crime, drama, history 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, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: The Inquiry adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Inquiry?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: The Inquiry
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Inquiry Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoThe Inquiry Parents Guide & Age Rating
1986 AdvisoryWondering about The Inquiry age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Inquiry is 107 minutes (1h 47m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.7/10, and global performance metrics, The Inquiry is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1986 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Inquiry worth watching?
The Inquiry is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 6.7/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Inquiry parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Inquiry identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Inquiry?
The total duration of The Inquiry is 107 minutes, which is approximately 1h 47m long.
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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.
