Is XL Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, XL is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 87 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
XL Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2013, XL emerges as a significant entry in the Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Ex-family man, avid womanizer, heavy-drinking, parliamentarian, Leifur, is forced to go into rehab by his political rival, following a well publicized art exhibition brawl. Unlike standard genre fare, XL 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 XL features a noteworthy lineup led by Ólafur Darri Ólafsson . Supported by the likes of María Birta Bjarnadóttir and Nanna Kristín Magnúsdóttir , 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 XL (2013) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.3/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
XL Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: XL is a Drama 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.
XL Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: XL attempts to tie together its various plot elements. 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 XL reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch XL?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of XL
- Ólafur Darri Ólafsson – Leifur Sigurðarson
- María Birta Bjarnadóttir – Æsa
- Nanna Kristín Magnúsdóttir – Sjöfn
- Elma Lísa Gunnarsdóttir – Kristína
- Þorsteinn Bachmann – Prime minister
Top Highlights
Ólafur Darri ÓlafssonLeifur Sigurðarson
María Birta BjarnadóttirÆsa
Nanna Kristín MagnúsdóttirSjöfn
Elma Lísa GunnarsdóttirKristína
Þorsteinn BachmannPrime minister
Helgi BjörnssonEiríkur
Rúnar GuðbrandssonHrafnkell
Margrét Helga JóhannsdóttirGuðbjörg
Hafdís Helga HelgadóttirBjörk
Snorri ÁsmundssonAntoníus
Where to Watch XL Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
XL has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.3/10, and global collection metrics, XL stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2013 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is XL movie hit or flop?
XL is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.3/10 and lower collections.
Is XL worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.3/10, XL may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch XL online?
XL 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 XL Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for XL
XL is film about excess and a metaphor of the wonderful party Icelanders were having until it all came crashing down in 2007 onwards with the financial meltdown. Actor Olafur Darri Olafsson gives a tour de force performance, totally without inhibitions as Icelandic politician Leifur ordered by the Prime Minister to go to rehab for his alcoholism. Booze is the least of his problems. He is overweight, on drugs and a sex addict. He looks down on people and they are his voters. The film is shown in Leifur's alcoholic point of view, jumping at different points in time as we see his pathetic descent into excess and corruption.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
