80
Material that might have turned to standard dysfunctional family treacle in other hands is given stirring poignancy, warmth and emotional insight in Shona Auerbach's assured first feature.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
50
Christian Science Monitor by David Sterritt
Well acted, capably directed, not as substantial as it might have been.
40
The movie’s glib trafficking in illness, death and pinched little faces to jury-rig our emotional responses (Gibb was inspired by the equally likable, equally pandering Czech film "Kolya") lost me at hello.
63
ReelViews by James Berardinelli
The end result is an unremarkable, unmemorable movie that deserves neither praise nor approbation.
80
Chicago Reader by Jonathan Rosenbaum
Subtle and graceful directorial debut.
70
On its own terms, Dear Frankie works much better than it really has any right to. Auerbach tells a small, contrived story, but gives it the weight of life.
75
Rolling Stone by Peter Travers
What could have been a sentimental train wreck emerges as a funny and touching portrait of three bruised people.
80
The Hollywood Reporter by Ray Bennett
The movie is filled with small moments of tenderness, insight and considerable wisdom.
70
While the film isn’t completely perfect, director and cinematographer Shona Auerbach shows that she’s a great new filmmaking talent.
70
The New York Times by Stephen Holden
"Miramax porn." The term refers to manipulative tearjerkers like Dear Frankie whose sensitive performances, along with a light dusting of grit, allow them to be marketed as art films. This one is clever enough to fool a lot of people.