68
Metascore
15 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 91Entertainment WeeklyLisa SchwarzbaumEntertainment WeeklyLisa SchwarzbaumIn his debut feature, the director is wise enough to move his hand-held camera wherever Steen wants to go.
- 90SalonAndrew O'HehirSalonAndrew O'HehirApplause may present as gritty European realism, but the struggle inside Thea is almost theological in scale, and worthy of Milton or Kierkegaard.
- 80Los Angeles TimesBetsy SharkeyLos Angeles TimesBetsy SharkeyIt is a singular performance and a deeply affecting if imperfect film.
- 70MovielineStephanie ZacharekMovielineStephanie ZacharekA small movie with modest ambitions, and accordingly, it packs only a modest emotional punch.
- 60The Hollywood ReporterSheri LindenThe Hollywood ReporterSheri LindenThe simple but affecting film begins a weeklong award-qualifying run Friday before opening in stateside art houses Jan. 21, and is worth a look for its gutsy and commanding central performance.
- 60Village VoiceMelissa AndersonVillage VoiceMelissa AndersonUsually an enervating process to witness onscreen, Steen's subtle calibrations of self-hatred and raging narcissism exhilarate.
- 60Time OutDavid FearTime OutDavid FearHer (Steen) emotional acrobatics are reason enough to sit through Applause's parade of pain, though it's a movie to admire rather than enjoy.
- 50The New York TimesManohla DargisThe New York TimesManohla DargisWhen an actress gives herself as wholly as Ms. Steen does here, a filmmaker should return the favor with a comparable level of craft and commitment, which is largely absent from this movie.
- 40New York Daily NewsJoe NeumaierNew York Daily NewsJoe NeumaierSteen, her face full of remorse, does a great job of portraying someone unclear of where to go or what to say without a script.