Absence of Malice
Megan Carter is a reporter duped into running an untrue story on Michael Gallagher, a suspected racketeer. He has an alibi for the time his crime was allegedly committed—but it involves an innocent party. When he tells Carter the truth and the newspaper runs it, tragedy follows, forcing Carter to face up to the responsibilities of her job when she is confronted by Gallagher.
Ratings
Based on audience scoresWhere to stream Absence of Malice
Streaming now in the United States on Amazon Prime Video, The Roku Channel, and Tubi TV.
Rent or buy in the United States on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.
Trailers and promos
Absence of Malice (1981) Original Trailer [HD]
Larry Karaszewski on ABSENCE OF MALICE
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Frequently asked questions about Absence of Malice
Where can I watch Absence of Malice in the United States?
Absence of Malice is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, The Roku Channel, and Tubi TV in the United States, and to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Streaming availability is provided by JustWatch and can change over time.
Is Absence of Malice on Amazon Prime Video?
Yes. Absence of Malice is streaming on Amazon Prime Video in the United States, alongside The Roku Channel and Tubi TV.
Can I watch Absence of Malice for free?
Absence of Malice streams free with ads in the United States on The Roku Channel and Tubi TV. A subscription is not required, though the service may ask you to register.
What are the ratings for Absence of Malice?
Absence of Malice scores 6.6 on The Movie Database, 6.9 on IMDb, 64% on Rotten Tomatoes, and 76 on Metacritic.
Who stars in Absence of Malice?
Absence of Malice stars Sally Field, Paul Newman, Bob Balaban, Melinda Dillon, and Luther Adler. Sydney Pollack is the director.
How long is Absence of Malice?
Absence of Malice runs 1h 56m (116 minutes).
When did Absence of Malice come out?
Absence of Malice was released on November 19, 1981.
Which studio made Absence of Malice?
Absence of Malice was produced by Mirage Enterprises and Columbia Pictures in the United States.
What was the budget for Absence of Malice?
Absence of Malice was made on a budget of $12,000,000.
How much did Absence of Malice make at the box office?
Absence of Malice grossed $40,716,963 worldwide, against a budget of $12,000,000.
What languages is Absence of Malice in?
Absence of Malice is in English and Spanish, and its original language is English.
Ratings and streaming availability are aggregated from third-party sources; metadata from The Movie Database (TMDB), streaming data from JustWatch. This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB. Streaming availability checked September 2026.