Is Upstream Color Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Upstream Color is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Upstream Color Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2013, Upstream Color emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Science Fiction domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A man and woman are drawn together, entangled in the lifecycle of an ageless organism. Unlike standard genre fare, Upstream Color attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Upstream Color features a noteworthy lineup led by Amy Seimetz . Supported by the likes of Shane Carruth and Andrew Sensenig , 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 Upstream Color (2013) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.3/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Upstream Color Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Upstream Color is a Drama, Science Fiction 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.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. A man and woman are drawn together, entangled in the lifecycle of an ageless organism. Identity becomes an illusion as they struggle to assemble the loose fragments of wrecked lives. The screenplay takes time to develop its characters, 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. The 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 themes.
Upstream Color Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Upstream Color concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Upstream Color reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Upstream Color?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Upstream Color Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $100.0K |
| Worldwide Gross | $444.1K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Upstream Color Budget
The estimated production budget for Upstream Color is $100.0K. 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 Upstream Color
- Amy Seimetz – Kris
- Shane Carruth – Jeff
- Andrew Sensenig – The Sampler
- Thiago Martins – Thief
- Carolyn King – Wife
Top Highlights
Amy SeimetzKris
Shane CarruthJeff
Andrew SensenigThe Sampler
Thiago MartinsThief
Carolyn KingWife
Mollie MilliganMaggie
Myles McGeeMonty
Ashton MiramontesLucas
Andreon WatsonPeter
Frank MosleyHusband
Where to Watch Upstream Color Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Upstream Color is rated NR.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.3/10, and global collection metrics, Upstream Color stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2013 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Upstream Color movie hit or flop?
Upstream Color has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Upstream Color worth watching?
Upstream Color is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Science Fiction movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Upstream Color online?
Upstream Color 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 Upstream Color Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Upstream Color
After almost 9 years since Primer, Shane Carruth returned with his next film, Upstream Color. Once again, Shane played multiple roles in the creation of this film – producer (one of), director, writer, actor (one of), music director, cinematographer and editor (one of). The film was made with a tiny budget of $50,000, wow, talk about being efficient. The story is not a convoluted one like Primer, which was based on time travel. That said, it’s not very straightforward either. It does talk about some unreal patterns and could get hard to understand at times. Do give it a watch if you haven’t already.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
