The Criminal (1999): cast, story & where to watch
1999 · Film · ★ 5.1

Released in 1999, The Criminal is a thriller film directed by Julian Simpson, running about 99 minutes. “Innocence Is No Protection” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Jasper Rawlins, a none-too-successful musician, finds himself chatting with a beautiful woman at his neighborhood bar. She goes home with him, direct and frank in answer to his nervousness. During the night, someone breaks into his flat and cuts her throat. He runs into the arms of the police, who dismiss his story, but release him while they search for the weapon. He investigates the crime, and over the next few days, meets a knowing pornographer, hit men, and other schemers. As dead bodies pile up wherever he goes, the police are soon looking for him with guns drawn. As he discovers secrets about a shadowy corporation, the police close in. Can he find someone to trust?
Who’s in it. The Criminal stars Steven Mackintosh as Jasper Rawlins, Bernard Hill as Det. Insp. Walker, Eddie Izzard as Peter Hume and Natasha Little as Sarah Maitland, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.1/10, The Criminal has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Criminal page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Criminal tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Criminal (1999)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Criminal change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Criminal worth watching?
- The Criminal holds an audience score of 5.1 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy thriller. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Criminal?
- The Criminal stars Steven Mackintosh, Bernard Hill, Eddie Izzard, Natasha Little and Yvan Attal.