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Documentary

Jim Allison: Breakthrough (2019): Cast, Ratings & Box Office

Jim Allison: Breakthrough (2019) movie poster

Jim Allison: Breakthrough is a 2019 documentary directed by Bill Haney, starring Jim Allison, Woody Harrelson and Willie Nelson. It runs 1 hour 30 minutes and earned $87,984 worldwide. Critics gave it 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 71 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.6/10.

IMDb rating
7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes
91%
worldwide gross
$88K
Echo Score
75
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Jim Allison: Breakthrough (2019) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 30m (90 min)
Director
Bill Haney
Genre
Documentary
Original language
English
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Jim Allison: Breakthrough About?

The premise of Jim Allison: Breakthrough without spoilers.

This inspiring documentary follows Texas native Jim Allison, whose unique journey as both a passionate blues musician and a pioneering researcher leads to a groundbreaking cancer cure. Allison’s relentless pursuit of answers results in a life-changing discovery that redefines medical science and highlights the power of human potential. His unconventional path showcases the importance of perseverance in scientific exploration.

Jim Allison: Breakthrough Themes & Keywords

· 4 tags
  • scientist
  • cancer
  • immunotherapy
  • nobel prize
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Cast & crew

Jim Allison: Breakthrough Cast & Characters

Jim Allison leads the cast, with Woody Harrelson as Narrator and Willie Nelson. Directed by Bill Haney; 7 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Jim Allison: Breakthrough

· 3 more
From the director

More from Bill Haney

More films directed by Bill Haney, best-rated first: The Price of Sugar and The Last Mountain.

Full filmography
Ratings

Jim Allison: Breakthrough Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Jim Allison: Breakthrough 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 71 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.6/10. Our Echo Score gives it 75/100, strongest in character & emotion (90) and weakest in sensory experience (60).

75 /100

Jim Allison: Breakthrough Echo Score Breakdown

Overall, Jim Allison: Breakthrough delivers a compelling and accessible portrayal of its Nobel-winning scientist. Reviews highlight its clear narrative structure and engaging depiction of Allison’s tireless pursuit, with audiences moved by both its emotional resonance and intellectual depth. While some critics note conventional filmmaking choices and occasional corporate-style recreations, the film’s strong thematic focus and inspirational tone leave a cohesive impression. The net result is a documentary that informs and motivates in equal measure.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 65

    In terms of art and craft, the film employs a straightforward directorial approach with polished production elements. Critics mention glossy dramatic recreations that enhance visual appeal but at times resemble promotional footage. The cinematography remains clear and functional, favoring accessibility over stylistic innovation. Overall, the artistic execution supports the subject matter without drawing undue attention to itself.

  • Character & Emotion 90

    When it comes to character and emotion, Jim Allison emerges as a compelling and empathetic figure. Reviews emphasize his down-to-earth demeanor, determined mindset, and genuine compassion, which resonate throughout the narrative. Performances and interviews convey depth and authenticity, fostering strong emotional engagement. The portrayal successfully humanizes the scientist and underlines his personal journey.

  • Story & Flow 80

    In terms of story and flow, the documentary presents a coherent and engaging narrative of Allison’s scientific breakthrough. Critics acknowledge its conventional biographical structure and measured pacing, while users praise the clear progression from early setbacks to Nobel-winning success. Occasional dramatic reenactments supplement factual segments without disrupting coherence. The overall narrative maintains momentum and provides an accessible account of the research journey.

  • Sensory Experience 60

    When it comes to sensory experience, the film balances informative content with polished audiovisual elements. The soundtrack and sound design are unobtrusive yet supportive, while visual style relies on clean editing and color grading. Some critics note that glossy recreations give a promotional feel. Overall, the sensory presentation remains serviceable and aids comprehension without overwhelming the subject.

  • Rewatch Factor 70

    In terms of rewatch factor, the documentary’s inspirational narrative and insightful interviews encourage repeat viewings, especially for those interested in medical research. Viewers note the film’s clarity and emotional impact make subsequent viewings rewarding. However, its informational focus and lack of stylistic variation may limit casual rewatch appeal. Ultimately, the film offers worthwhile revisits for engaged audiences.

Box office

Jim Allison: Breakthrough Box Office

Jim Allison: Breakthrough grossed $87,984 worldwide.

2019 box office

Worldwide gross

$88K

US & Canada
$88K
Details

Jim Allison: Breakthrough Also Known As

4 alternative titles, including “永不放棄:詹姆斯艾利森” and “브레이크스루”.

Also known as
  • 永不放棄:詹姆斯艾利森
  • 브레이크스루
  • Jim Allison - Pionier. Krebsforscher. Nobelpreisträger
  • Jim Allison - A Grande Descoberta

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FAQ

Jim Allison: Breakthrough FAQ: Cast & Box Office

Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, ratings and post-credit scenes of Jim Allison: Breakthrough, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Jim Allison: Breakthrough?

Jim Allison: Breakthrough runs 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes).

When was Jim Allison: Breakthrough released?

Jim Allison: Breakthrough was released on September 27, 2019.

Who directed Jim Allison: Breakthrough?

Jim Allison: Breakthrough was directed by Bill Haney.

More films by Bill Haney

Who is in the cast of Jim Allison: Breakthrough?

Jim Allison: Breakthrough stars Jim Allison, Woody Harrelson as Narrator and Willie Nelson, among 7 credited actors.

How much did Jim Allison: Breakthrough make at the box office?

Jim Allison: Breakthrough grossed $87,984 worldwide.

How is Jim Allison: Breakthrough rated?

Jim Allison: Breakthrough has 7.6/10 on IMDb, 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and 71 on Metacritic.

Does Jim Allison: Breakthrough have a post-credit scene?

No. Jim Allison: Breakthrough has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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