Is The Operative Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Operative is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 120 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

Verdict:The Operative is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 5.8/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Drama, Thriller genre.
Answer: Maybe not, The Operative is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 120 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2019, The Operative emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A young Western woman is recruited by the Mossad to go undercover in Tehran where she becomes entangled in a complex triangle with her handler and her subject. Unlike standard genre fare, The Operative attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Operative features a noteworthy lineup led by Diane Kruger . Supported by the likes of Martin Freeman and Cas Anvar , 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.
In summary, our editorial assessment of The Operative (2019) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Quick Plot Summary: The Operative is a Drama, Thriller 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.
Ending Breakdown: The Operative attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
The final moments of The Operative reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Consider Watching If:
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $1.4M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |









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YouTubeAnalyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.8/10, and global collection metrics, The Operative stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2019 cinematic year.
The Operative has received mixed reviews with a 5.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
The Operative is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
The Operative 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.
Still, if you’re after a character-focused espionage drama with an emphasis on real people and human drama rather than a James Bond-style spy caper featuring indestructible action heroes, ‘The Operative’ is worth checking out. - Jake Watt Read Jake's full article... https://www.maketheswitch.com.au/article/review-the-operative-finding-the-humanity-in-espionage
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.