Is The Lawbreakers Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Lawbreakers is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 79 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Lawbreakers Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1961, The Lawbreakers emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of The story of a scheme to double-cross the syndicate and steal its money, and of a police commissioner 's efforts to investigate homicides that take place as the scheme unfolds while also fighting corruption in the city government and police department. Unlike standard genre fare, The Lawbreakers 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 The Lawbreakers features a noteworthy lineup led by Jack Warden . Supported by the likes of Vera Miles and Robert Douglas , 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 Lawbreakers (1961) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
The Lawbreakers Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: The Lawbreakers is a Drama, Crime 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.
The Lawbreakers Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: The Lawbreakers 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 The Lawbreakers reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Lawbreakers Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Lawbreakers incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, crime 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: The Lawbreakers adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Lawbreakers?
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 The Lawbreakers
- Jack Warden – Matthew Gower
- Vera Miles – Angela Walsh
- Robert Douglas – Allen Bardeman
- Arch Johnson – Gus Honochek
- Douglas Odney – Frank Orte
Top Highlights
Jack WardenMatthew Gower
Vera MilesAngela Walsh
Robert DouglasAllen Bardeman
Arch JohnsonGus Honochek
Douglas OdneyFrank Orte
Robert H. HarrisJoe Selkin
Ken LynchEd Rackin
Robert BaileySam Henry
David WhiteCommissioner James Deane
Mary LawrenceMarian Gower
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Lawbreakers has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Drama, Crime), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, The Lawbreakers stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1961 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Lawbreakers movie hit or flop?
The Lawbreakers has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Lawbreakers worth watching?
The Lawbreakers is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Lawbreakers online?
The Lawbreakers 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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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
