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About The Critic
Jimmy Erskine is the most feared theatre critic of the age. He lives as flamboyantly as he writes and takes pleasure in savagely taking down any actor who fails to meet his standards. When the owner of the Daily Chronicle dies, and his son takes over, Jimmy quickly finds himself at odds with his new boss and his position under threat. In an attempt to preserve the power and influence he holds so sacred, Jimmy strikes a Faustian pact with a struggling actress, entangling them and the boss in a thrilling but deadly web of desire, blackmail, and betrayal.
- Year
- 2024
- Genres
- Drama, Thriller, Crime
- Runtime
- 101mins
- Director
- Anand Tucker
- Top cast
- Ian McKellen, Gemma Arterton, Mark Strong, Lesley Manville, Ben Barnes
The Critic trailer
Play video: The Critic trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
The Critic, directed by Anand Tucker, presents a sharp and incisive look at the world of theatre criticism through the lens of its protagonist, Jimmy Erskine. Played with flair and intensity, Jimmy is a character that embodies both the brilliance and the flaws of a critic. The film's narrative is tightly woven, with each scene building tension as Jimmy navigates his precarious position following the death of the Daily Chronicle's owner. Tucker's direction allows for a balance of humour and drama, creating an engaging atmosphere that reflects the complexities of ambition and power. The performances, particularly from the lead, are compelling and layered, drawing viewers into a world of intrigue and manipulation. The emotional depth and moral ambiguity make The Critic a thought-provoking watch, and its exploration of the fine line between critique and cruelty resonates deeply. Overall, it is a film that challenges its audience while entertaining them, earning a solid four stars.
Editor Team
★★★★★3.5/5
The Critic is a wild ride through the cutthroat world of theatre, and wow, does it deliver some sharp commentary! Jimmy Erskine, the lead character, is both fabulous and infuriating, a critic who relishes in tearing down others while trying to keep his own life from crumbling. The film dives headfirst into the chaos of his world, where ambition meets betrayal in the most unexpected ways. Anand Tucker's direction brings a stylish flair, making every scene pop with energy. However, while the plot is engaging, it occasionally feels like it dances around deeper themes instead of fully embracing them. The ending packs a punch, but I wish it had explored the emotional fallout a bit more. Still, the performances are strong, and the film’s blend of humour and drama makes it worth a watch. It's not perfect, but The Critic offers an entertaining look at the highs and lows of artistic criticism, earning a respectable three and a half stars.
How viewers describe this
- engaging
- thought-provoking
- intense
- stylish
- entertaining
- sharp
- layered
- chaotic
- infuriating
- emotional
- thrilling
- compelling
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 09 | ||
| 02 | 13 | ||
| 03 | 36 | ||
| 04 | 41 | ||
| 05 | 42 | ||
| 06 | 43 | ||
| 07 | 48 | ||
| 08 | 52 | ||
| 09 | 55 | ||
| 10 | 65 |
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Got a question about The Critic?
Is The Critic worth watching?
Yes, The Critic is worth watching for its engaging plot and strong performances. The film cleverly explores the world of theatre criticism, blending drama and suspense in a way that keeps audiences captivated throughout.
What is The Critic really about?
The Critic revolves around Jimmy Erskine, a feared theatre critic whose life spirals when he clashes with his new boss. His desperate attempts to maintain his influence lead him into a dark pact with a struggling actress, resulting in a thrilling tale of desire and betrayal.
Is The Critic suitable for children?
No, The Critic is not suitable for children. The film contains mature themes, including blackmail and betrayal, as well as strong language and adult situations that may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
Where can I watch The Critic in Australia?
The Critic is available for streaming on various platforms in Australia. Check local listings for availability on services like Netflix, Stan, or Amazon Prime Video.
Is there a sequel to The Critic?
As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel to The Critic. The film stands alone with its unique story, but audience reception may influence future developments.
What happens at the end of The Critic? (Spoiler Alert)
At the end of The Critic, Jimmy's web of deceit unravels, leading to a dramatic confrontation that forces him to face the consequences of his actions. The resolution leaves viewers questioning the cost of ambition and the nature of power.
Is The Critic scary?
The Critic is not a horror film, but it contains thrilling elements and tense situations that may evoke suspense. The psychological aspects of the plot create an unsettling atmosphere, but it is not designed to be frightening.
What films are similar to The Critic?
Films similar to The Critic include Birdman, which also explores the world of theatre, and The Devil Wears Prada, where ambition and personal relationships collide in a competitive environment.
What is the cultural impact of The Critic?
The Critic has sparked conversations about the role of theatre critics and the ethics of criticism in the arts. Its blend of drama and dark humour resonates with audiences, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary cinema.
What themes are explored in The Critic?
The Critic explores themes of ambition, power dynamics, betrayal, and the moral complexities of critique in the arts. The film raises questions about the impact of criticism and the sacrifices made for success.