[2] Recorded at M-Phazes' studio in Melbourne, Australia, the album serves as Illy's first release under his independent label, ONETWO and includes collaborations with Hilltop Hoods, Drapht, Daniel Merriweather and Kira Puru among others.

In his review for themusic.com.au, Ben Preece awarded the album four stars and stated, "Illy pulls off his lead role effortlessly, guiding the entire project with the style and class we’ve come to expect from the MC, but seemingly with a new zest that breathes fresh air into what he does".

[27] Triple J also gave the album a positive review commenting, "Working with a host of high profile producers such as M-Phazes (Eminem, Bliss N Eso, Kimbra), Illy has pushed outside his musical boundaries, delivering a record that transcends genres and is packed with glitchy pop hooks, soul and epic beats, not to mention Illy’s trademark cutting edge lyrics".

Ultimately, however Farrell concludes that "Cinematic is sure to be a hit with Illy fans and a fresh batch of tweens looking for an easy way onto the hip-hop/rap bandwagon".

[29] Cinematic was nominated for "Best Urban Album" at the 2014 ARIA Music Awards[5] but lost to Walking Under Stars by the Hilltop Hoods.