Is The Package Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Package is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 108 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Package Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1989, The Package emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Thriller, Action domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Experienced Green Beret sergeant Johnny Gallagher is escorting a prisoner, Airborne Ranger Thomas Boyette, back to the US, but Boyette escapes and Gallagher must risk life and limb to catch him. Unlike standard genre fare, The Package attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Package features a noteworthy lineup led by Gene Hackman . Supported by the likes of Joanna Cassidy and Tommy Lee Jones , 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 Package (1989) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
The Package Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: The Package is a Crime, Thriller, Action film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
The Package Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: The Package concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Package reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Package Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Package incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, thriller, action 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 Package adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Package?
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
The Package Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $16.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $10.6M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Package Budget
The estimated production budget for The Package is $16.0M. 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 The Package
- Gene Hackman – Sgt. Johnny Gallagher
- Joanna Cassidy – Eileen Gallagher
- Tommy Lee Jones – Thomas Boyette
- John Heard – Col. Glen Whitacre
- Dennis Franz – Lt. Milan Delich
Top Highlights
Gene HackmanSgt. Johnny Gallagher
Joanna CassidyEileen Gallagher
Tommy Lee JonesThomas Boyette
John HeardCol. Glen Whitacre
Dennis FranzLt. Milan Delich
Pam GrierRuth Butler
Ron DeanKarl Richards
Nathan DavisSoviet Press Secretary
Chelcie RossGen. Hopkins
Joe GrecoGen. Carlson
Where to Watch The Package Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
MGM Plus Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
The Package is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.1/10, and global collection metrics, The Package stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1989 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Package movie hit or flop?
The Package has received mixed reviews with a 6.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Package worth watching?
The Package is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Thriller, Action movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Package online?
The Package 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 The Package Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for The Package
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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