Is The Riddle Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Riddle is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 116 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Riddle Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2007, The Riddle emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Mystery, Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A journalist investigates a series of murders that follows the discovery of an unpublished novel by Charles Dickens in the cellar of an old Thames pub. Unlike standard genre fare, The Riddle attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Riddle features a noteworthy lineup led by Vinnie Jones . Supported by the likes of Julie Cox and Vera Day , 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 Riddle (2007) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
The Riddle Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: The Riddle is a Thriller, Mystery, Drama film that builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
The Riddle Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: The Riddle attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to thriller 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Riddle reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Riddle?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
The Riddle Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $37.9K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Riddle Budget
The estimated production budget for The Riddle is $5.0M. 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 Riddle
- Vinnie Jones – Mike Sullivan
- Julie Cox – Kate Merrill
- Vera Day – Sadie Miller
- Magda Rodriguez – Ruth
- Derek Jacobi – The Tramp / Charles Dickens
Top Highlights
Vinnie JonesMike Sullivan
Julie CoxKate Merrill
Vera DaySadie Miller
Magda RodriguezRuth
Derek JacobiThe Tramp / Charles Dickens
Vanessa RedgraveRoberta Elliot
Jason FlemyngDon Roberts CEO
P.H. MoriartyD.I. Willis / Constable Frederick (as P H Moriarty)
Mel SmithProfessor Cranshaw
Elly FairmanVeronica Miller
Where to Watch The Riddle Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
The Riddle is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, The Riddle stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2007 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Riddle movie hit or flop?
The Riddle is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is The Riddle worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, The Riddle may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Riddle online?
The Riddle 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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How The Riddle Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for The Riddle
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movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
