Is Transmutations Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Transmutations is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 92 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Transmutations Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1985, Transmutations emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Action, Science Fiction, Adventure, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of When high class hooker Nicole is kidnapped from her brothel, Rich businessman Hugo Motherskille hires her ex love Roy Bain to find her. Unlike standard genre fare, Transmutations attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Transmutations features a noteworthy lineup led by Denholm Elliott . Supported by the likes of Steven Berkoff and Nicola Cowper , 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 Transmutations (1985) is negative. With an audience rating of 3.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Transmutations Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Transmutations is a Horror, Action, Science Fiction, Adventure, Thriller film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Transmutations Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Transmutations attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Transmutations reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Transmutations?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Transmutations
- Denholm Elliott – Dr. Savary
- Steven Berkoff – Hugo Motherskille
- Nicola Cowper – Nicole
- Larry Lamb – Roy Bain
- Irina Brook – Bianca
Top Highlights
Denholm ElliottDr. Savary
Steven BerkoffHugo Motherskille
Nicola CowperNicole
Larry LambRoy Bain
Irina BrookBianca
Art MalikFluke
Brian CroucherDarling
Ingrid PittPepperdine
Trevor ThomasRicardo
Clive PantoAbbott
Where to Watch Transmutations Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Transmutations is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.8/10, and global collection metrics, Transmutations stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1985 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transmutations movie hit or flop?
Transmutations is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.8/10 and lower collections.
Is Transmutations worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.8/10, Transmutations may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Transmutations online?
Transmutations 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 Transmutations Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Transmutations
"Underworld" suffers from a painfully obvious lack of budget from the very beginning. This could possibly be due to the fact a good portion of the money has been spent securing the services of Denholm Elliott, Steven Berkoff, Art Malik and Miranda Richardson. Or perhaps it was spent on the B-movie special effects company drafted in to produce the scene where Denholm Elliott explodes in a bargain basement recreation of John Cassavetes's dramatic and show stopping exit in Brian De Palma's "The Fury" (1978). In any case no matter what the budget was actually spent on the small amount remaining provides the whole venture with the most basic levels of production values and it looks unavoidably cheap throughout. The biggest disappointment of all is how totally unengaging it is and this leaves you with a case of by-the-numbers film making on a ghastly shoestring budget.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
