Zipper poster

Zipper

"Why take the risk."

Movie R 2015 1h 43m 5.5 /10
Directed by Mora Stephens

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

Patrick Wilson

Sam Ellis

Lena Headey

Lena Headey

Jeannie Ellis

Richard Dreyfuss

Richard Dreyfuss

George Hiller

Ray Winstone

Ray Winstone

Coaker

John Cho

John Cho

EJ

Dianna Agron

Dianna Agron

Dalia

Elena Satine

Elena Satine

Ellie Green

Alexandra Breckenridge

Alexandra Breckenridge

Christy

Christopher McDonald

Christopher McDonald

Peter Kirkland

Penelope Mitchell

Penelope Mitchell

Laci

Director: Mora Stephens

Written by: Joel Viertel

Frequently Asked Questions

Zipper is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.

With a rating of 5.5/10 from 170 viewers, Zipper is divisive among viewers - your mileage may vary. It's a good pick if you enjoy thriller and drama stories.

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 ser...

Patrick Wilson portrays Sam Ellis, Lena Headey plays Jeannie Ellis, Richard Dreyfuss is George Hiller, Ray Winstone is Coaker, and John Cho appears as EJ.

Zipper is rated R, indicating it contains mature content that may not be suitable for viewers under 17 without a parent or guardian.