30
Murray Cummings’ film is a cautiously peppy, unrevealing affair, showing little of the trial and tension that goes into artistic creation — just the finger-snapping moments when it all comes together.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
40
The Observer (UK) by Jonathan Romney
While we learn little of interest about Sheeran himself, the film is arguably a thoroughgoing demystification of the industrial process behind the modern pop song.
40
Village Voice by Jordan Hoffman
Songwriter sells the “nice boy” bit well, but if you aren’t already a fan, it eventually becomes tiresome. There are occasional glimmers of a real person (wishing to topple Adele, laying down a “no Snapchat” rule at his house, etc.) but rarely is a feature film so bluntly just marketing.
60
Los Angeles Times by Kimber Myers
Songwriter is intimate while oddly lacking insight into the artist himself, beyond the heart he pours into his lyrics.
60
The Guardian by Peter Bradshaw
There is no romantic tragedy, nor even a visible grit in the oyster: just a dogged, talented, unassuming professional showing us that it’s about the perspiration, not just the inspiration.
63
Time will tell if this latest pop idol has staying power — the falsetto songs mostly run together in the ears of a non-fan — but even Sheeran doubters should appreciate the work ethic, musicianship and wit of this chart-topping ginger tyro.
20
The Hollywood Reporter by Stephen Dalton
With an ineptitude so thorough it borders on genius, Cummings achieves the rare feat of making Sheeran appear even more boring in person than he is on record.
90
Film Threat by Tiffany Tchobanian
Every glimpse behind the curtain brings new meaning to your favorite songs. You discover how intimate and personal this album is for Sheeran and how much it means to his family. After watching Songwriter, you will listen to Divide with a newfound perspective that makes each song sound even better than it did before.