Zipper
"Why take the risk."
Sam Ellis is a rising federal prosecutor with a horizon ahead. A chance encounter with an escort pulls him into a world where desire clashes with duty. What begins as a one night fling quickly spirals into a compulsive habit that gnaws at his judgment and integrity. As the line between public... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: February 06, 2026
About Zipper
Sam Ellis is a rising federal prosecutor with a horizon ahead. A chance encounter with an escort pulls him into a world where desire clashes with duty. What begins as a one night fling quickly spirals into a compulsive habit that gnaws at his judgment and integrity. As the line between public service and private temptation blurs, Sam finds himself juggling pressure from a demanding career, a suspicious wife, and a mounting web of lies. The situation tests every boundary he has built around his work and home, forcing choices that could topple the life he has fought to construct. The film foregrounds the cost of public life and the fragility of trust, hard themes that test loyalty and resolve.
Directed by Mora Stephens, Zipper arrives as a tense drama inspired by Joel Viertel's concept. Released in 2015, the film pairs a stark moral predicament with a heavyweight supporting cast, including Patrick Wilson and Lena Headey, with restrained, intimate visuals.
Box office data for Zipper is not widely reported, suggesting a limited or niche release rather than a major wide stretch. The film appears to have targeted an audience seeking tense moral dramas and grounded storytelling rather than blockbuster appeal.
Cultural footprint is modest, with few lasting quotes or iconic moments outside thriller circles. The cast gives weight to the material, especially Patrick Wilson and Lena Headey, whose presence elevates the moral tension. Supporting players like Richard Dreyfuss and John Cho add credibility to the film's political undercurrents.
Critics described the film as a taut character study that probes how ambition and desire erode judgment, highlighting the toll on relationships and career. The drama sticks to a grounded, human focus, avoiding flashy set pieces while exploring guilt, consequences, and responsibility. Some reviewers noted strong performances that anchor the narrative. The film, however, remains resolutely intimate rather than sweeping in its ambitions.
Details
- Release Date
- August 28, 2015
- Runtime
- 1h 43m
- Rating
- R
- User Ratings
- 170 votes
- Type
- Movie
- Genres
- Thriller, Drama
- Country
- United States
- Studio
- Protozoa Pictures +2 more
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Official Trailer
Cast
Patrick Wilson
Sam Ellis
Lena Headey
Jeannie Ellis
Richard Dreyfuss
George Hiller
Ray Winstone
Coaker
John Cho
EJ
Dianna Agron
Dalia
Elena Satine
Ellie Green
Alexandra Breckenridge
Christy
Christopher McDonald
Peter Kirkland
Penelope Mitchell
Laci
Director: Mora Stephens
Written by: Joel Viertel