Ian McKellan gives an outstanding performance as Jimmy Erskine, a closeted theater critic in 1930s London. Drunk on the power of his penchant for writing negative reviews of stage actors, the theater world loves and hates him because his articles are well-read in a popular London-based newspaper. A beautiful stage actress, Nina Land (perfectly played by Gemma Arterton)…is desperate for Erskine to praise her work. However, the newspaper editor, David Brooke (Mark Strong), is tired of Erskine’s heavy-handed negativity because he often enjoys the plays that the critic eviscerates. The Critic, based on the novel Curtain Call by Anthony Quinn, is a wonderful prestige drama that should garner praise for Ian McKellan’s performance. Gemma Arterton is a stand-out as well, as she skillfully navigates how a stage actress tries to overcome personal demons and self-doubt. Tucker seamlessly captures the racism, sexism, and homophobia that ran rampant at the time. The devious dark plot is such a pleasant surprise the payoff is worth it. On top of that, The Critic has a beautiful score, excellent set design, and great cinematography–Film Threat

“Ian McKellen proves once again that he is truly the consummate actor. You can tell that he genuinely enjoys playing the delicious role, and he wants the audience to share in his excitement. The movie is wicked, clever, and delightfully entertaining.”–Niagara Gazette