The Sunset Limited (2011)
Kernel Score: 79% · 495 ratings · Rated R
Genres: Drama, TV Movie
Released: 2011-02-12
Runtime: 90 minutes
Where to watch The Sunset Limited
- Stream: HBO Max
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
A deeply religious black ex-con thwarts the suicide attempt of an asocial white college professor who tries to throw himself in front of an oncoming subway train, 'The Sunset Limited.' As the one attempts to connect on a rational, spiritual and emotional level, the other remains steadfast in his hard-earned despair. Locked in a philosophical debate, both passionately defend their personal credos and try to convert the other.
The Sunset Limited parents' guide: ages 11+
Parents need to know that The Sunset Limited is an R-rated drama centered on a suicide attempt and an intense philosophical/theological debate between two men.
- Violence & scariness: Some — Opens with a suicide attempt and deals with themes of despair throughout.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like The Sunset Limited
If you liked The Sunset Limited, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Rope (1948) — 89%
- You Don't Know Jack (2010) — 75%
- Requiem for a Dream (2000) — 89%
- 12 Angry Men (1957) — 96%
- Swan Song (2021) — 79%
- Melancholia (2011) — 79%
- Taste of Cherry (1997) — 85%
Director
Cast
- Tommy Lee Jones as White
- Samuel L. Jackson as Black
The Sunset Limited FAQ
Is The Sunset Limited good?
The Sunset Limited has a 79% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 495 audience ratings.
Where can I watch The Sunset Limited?
In the US you can stream The Sunset Limited on HBO Max and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is The Sunset Limited OK for kids?
The Sunset Limited is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that The Sunset Limited is an R-rated drama centered on a suicide attempt and an intense philosophical/theological debate between two men.
What movies are like The Sunset Limited?
If you liked The Sunset Limited, try Rope, You Don't Know Jack, Requiem for a Dream and 12 Angry Men.