Is Wishmaster Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Wishmaster is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Wishmaster Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1997, Wishmaster emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Fantasy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of The Djinn, having been released from his ancient prison, seeks to capture the soul of the woman who discovered him, thereby opening a portal and freeing his fellow Djinn to take over the earth. Unlike standard genre fare, Wishmaster 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 Wishmaster features a noteworthy lineup led by Angus Scrimm . Supported by the likes of Andrew Divoff and Tammy Lauren , 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 Wishmaster (1997) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Wishmaster Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Wishmaster is a Horror, Fantasy 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.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. The Djinn, having been released from his ancient prison, seeks to capture the soul of the woman who discovered him, thereby opening a portal and freeing his fellow Djinn to take over the earth. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- 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 final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Wishmaster Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Wishmaster concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, 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 Wishmaster reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Wishmaster?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Horror films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a few scares and creepy atmosphere
Wishmaster Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $15.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Wishmaster Budget
The estimated production budget for Wishmaster 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 Wishmaster
- Angus Scrimm – Narrator (voice)
- Andrew Divoff – The Djinn
- Tammy Lauren – Alexandra Amberson
- Robert Englund – Raymond Beaumont
- Ari Barak – Zoroaster
Top Highlights
Angus ScrimmNarrator (voice)
Andrew DivoffThe Djinn
Tammy LaurenAlexandra Amberson
Robert EnglundRaymond Beaumont
Ari BarakZoroaster
Jake McKinnonSkeleton Man
Greg FunkSnake Man
Richard AssadPersian King
Ted RaimiEd Finney
Dan HicksCustoms Official
Where to Watch Wishmaster Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Wishmaster is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.1/10, and global collection metrics, Wishmaster stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1997 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wishmaster movie hit or flop?
Wishmaster has received mixed reviews with a 6.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Wishmaster worth watching?
Wishmaster is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Fantasy movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Wishmaster online?
Wishmaster 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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Critic Reviews for Wishmaster
I haven't seen _Wishmaster_ since I was a kid, I always enjoyed it back then, so I was nervous showing it to some friends that wouldn't withstand the test of time. It totally did though. Sure _Wishmaster's_ pretty dumb and it can't keep its story straight, but those practical effects? Bellissimo. _Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._
_**This ain’t the Barbara Eden kind of genie**_ Through a priceless gemstone, a malevolent djinn (Andrew Divoff) is released in Los Angeles where he harasses people by answering their wishes. Tammy Lauren plays the protagonist, Wendy Benson-Landes her sister and Robert Englund a collector of idolatrous artifacts. “Wishmaster” (1997) is inventive comic book horror with a thought-out script that features a villain/monster that is actually interesting for a change. The Djinn is superbly done and diabolically charismatic. Meanwhile Tammy Lauren is reminiscent of a younger Linda Hamilton. She’s likable and spirited, but doesn’t do much for me personally; and the role of Wendy Benson-Landes is too small to note. The flick isn’t helped by its gaudy low-rent vibe and bland cast, but it entertains well enough with amusingly horrific effects, fun cameos and a unique concept. As of 2002 it birthed three sequels. The film runs 1 hour, 30 minutes, and was shot in Los Angeles. GRADE: B-
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