Rumble Fish (1983) Review in 2025
Rumble Fish is a coming-of-age drama set in a gritty, crime-ridden neighborhood, following the story of a teenager who gets caught up in a world of violence and rebellion.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes, violence, and strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of coming-of-age dramas and gritty, urban landscapes. Suitable for streaming or watching in theaters.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around Rusty James, a troubled teenager who idolizes his older brother, The Motorcycle Boy, and becomes embroiled in a violent confrontation with a local gang, leading to a tragic outcome.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, exploring themes of rebellion, loyalty, and the struggles of adolescence. However, it feels somewhat predictable and lacks a strong narrative arc.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, particularly from Matt Dillon and Vincent Spano. They bring depth and nuance to their characters, making their interactions and relationships feel authentic and emotionally resonant.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, particularly Rusty James and The Motorcycle Boy. Their relationships and interactions are authentic and emotionally resonant.
direction9.00/10
Francis Ford Coppola's direction is masterful, capturing the gritty atmosphere of the neighborhood and the emotional intensity of the characters. His use of camera angles and lighting is particularly noteworthy.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the gritty, urban landscape and the emotional intensity of the characters. The use of lighting and shadows adds depth and texture to the visuals.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, masterful direction, and stunning cinematography.
Cons
Predictable narrative, some violence and strong language.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a rebel, I'm just a guy who likes to ride motorcycles."
"You're just a punk, Rusty. You're just a punk."
