Critic Reviews
77
Metascore
Generally Favorable
positive
38(90%)
mixed
3(7%)
negative
1(2%)
Showing 42 Critic Reviews
Oct 28, 2013
100
A terrific, sophisticated comedy that tackles serious issues with a lightness of touch and a spirit of steel, Philomena is the British film to beat come BAFTA time.
Nov 19, 2013
100
It’s profoundly moving and thoroughly mind provoking, but despite the poignant subject matter, I promise you will not leave Philomena depressed. I’ve seen it twice and felt exhilarated, informed, enriched, absorbed and optimistic both times.
Nov 20, 2013
91
Dench and Coogan's chemistry is undeniably great. In the end, he manages to give her the answers she seeks and she manages to give him a heart.
Nov 25, 2013
91
Effective, fact-based melodrama that packs an unexpected emotional wallop.
Oct 27, 2016
91
Philomena has a few modest missteps, and a frustrating moment or two (Philomena is more forgiving than Martin – and the audience – want her to be), but the film is so moving, so brisk, and so sweet that it is hard to be left with anything resembling disappointment.
Sep 16, 2013
90
Getting full comic effect from its class-comedy abrasions, Philomena rises to poignancy and profundity as Dench reveals her control of a character stained by the loss of her child and troubled by her suspicion.
Nov 21, 2013
90
Even through improbable moments and abrupt changes of pace and tone, Ms. Dench and Mr. Coogan hold the movie together.
Nov 21, 2013
90
Stephen Frears is in full possession of his filmmaking talent in Philomena, one of his most pulled-together dramas in years.
Nov 19, 2013
88
Most credit goes to Coogan for the success of this odd coupling.
Nov 21, 2013
88
It's Dench, showing how faith and hellraising can reside in the same woman, who makes Philomena moving and memorable.
