Critic Reviews
65
Metascore
Generally Favorable
positive
22(76%)
mixed
5(17%)
negative
2(7%)
Showing 29 Critic Reviews
90
In theory, we go to movies for enjoyment. Director Rodrigo Cortés inverts that notion with Buried, a terrific, claustrophobic, fist-clenching film in which he tortures his audience in exquisite fashion.
88
The use of 2:35 wide screen paradoxically increases the effect of claustrophobia. I would not like to be buried alive.
88
This exercise in racked nerves makes most of the year's thrillers look like flailing maniacs by comparison.
88
The movie works not because of twists and switchbacks in the narrative, but because of the skill with which Cortés has conceived this singularly disturbing nightmare.
88
Those drawn to unusual, unflinching feats of filmmaking and rare acting turns as well as sustained suspense will be captivated by Buried.
83
Balanced precariously between a horror film and a war movie, but it's so sly and assured that you can't dismiss the allegorical, even satirical undertones that Cortés teases out of Sparling's conceit.
80
In purely cinematic terms, Buried, set in late 2006, is an ingenious exercise in sustained tension that would make Alfred Hitchcock turn over in his grave.
80
The movie's real asset is Reynolds himself, utilizing his comedy chops for unexpected levity.
80
It's brilliantly silly entertainment whose flaws are glaring only in hindsight; in the moment, you'll have much more fun if you stop looking for holes in the script and join Paul in looking for a way out.
80
Just when it seems he's left himself with no way out, he comes up with a finish guaranteed to leave you breathless.
