88
About a Boy is a rarity in many ways. It's a well-written, witty film whose memorable characters grapple with the nature of family, love, friendship and despair. Even its soundtrack, by Badly Drawn Boy, is perfectly pitched.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
90
It's irresistible, damn it. Mainstream comedies should all be this funny and tender and deftly performed.
60
Pleasant and engaging, rather than laugh-out-loud funny or emotionally involving.
90
Washington Post by Desson Thomson
Hilarious, touching and wonderfully dyspeptic.
80
Illuminating with their energy and wit.
75
New York Daily News by Jami Bernard
A comedy hit, but its secret is that it delves deeper than the usual summer fare.
89
Austin Chronicle by Marc Savlov
About a Boy knows exactly what it wants to do: It wants to make you smile, and grin, and then laugh with recognition, and it manages all three, again and again.
83
Entertainment Weekly by Owen Gleiberman
Hugh Grant has grown up, holding on to his lightness and witty cynicism but losing the stuttering sherry-club mannerisms that were once his signature. In doing so, he has blossomed into the rare actor who can play a silver-tongued sleaze with a hidden inner decency.
80
New Times (L.A.) by Robert Wilonsky
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of About a Boy is how substantial it plays -- as a feel-good film with weight, a knowing comedy with dramatic depth.
88
Chicago Sun-Times by Roger Ebert
We have all the action heroes and Method script-chewers we need right now, but the Cary Grant department is understaffed, and Hugh Grant shows here that he is more than a star, he is a resource.
I never thought I needed a friendship between a grown man and a 12 year old boy until I watched this movie. Their heartwarming relationship will make you reevaluate your priorities in life.