Under the Shadow
Under the Shadow Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: April 11, 2026
Movie Overview: Under the Shadow
| Movie | Under the Shadow |
| Release Year | 2016 |
| Director | Babak Anvari |
| Genre | Drama / Horror / War |
| Runtime | 84 minutes |
| Language | FA |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Under the Shadow (2016) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Under the Shadow are led by Narges Rashidi . The supporting cast, including Avin Manshadi and Bobby Naderi , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Under the Shadow stands out as a strong entry in the Drama genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Under the Shadow has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Under the Shadow
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2016, Under the Shadow is a Drama, Horror, War film directed by Babak Anvari. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Narges Rashidi.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. After Shideh's building is hit by a missile during the Iran-Iraq War, a superstitious neighbor suggests that the missile was cursed and might be carrying malevolent Middle-Eastern spirits. She becomes convinced a supernatural force within the building is attempting to possess her daughter Dorsa, and she has no choice but to confront these forces if she is to save her daughter and herself. The screenplay takes time to develop Narges Rashidi's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Narges Rashidi's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: Under the Shadow
Under the Shadow Ending Explained: Directed by Babak Anvari, Under the Shadow wraps up the main storyline while leaving some interpretation to viewers. The ending highlights the core drama themes developed throughout the film.
The emotional resolution focuses on the transformation of its main characters, particularly in scenes involving Narges Rashidi. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
- Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the drama themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of Under the Shadow reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
Under the Shadow Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Under the Shadow Based on a True Story?
Under the Shadow reflects historical conflicts and military events. As a drama, horror, war film directed by Babak Anvari, the production explores how real events can be adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: Under the Shadow uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch Under the Shadow?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Narges Rashidi or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Top Cast: Under the Shadow
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Under the Shadow Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
NetflixUnder the Shadow Parents Guide & Age Rating
2016 AdvisoryWondering about Under the Shadow age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Under the Shadow is 84 minutes (1h 24m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.5/10, and global performance metrics, Under the Shadow is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2016 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Under the Shadow worth watching?
Under the Shadow is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Under the Shadow parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Under the Shadow identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Under the Shadow?
The total duration of Under the Shadow is 84 minutes, which is approximately 1h 24m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
