60
Washington Post by Desson Thomson
I can recommend the first two-thirds of this movie with great enthusiasm.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
88
Charlotte Observer by Lawrence Toppman
Supplies the three key elements of the best political thrillers: suspense, credibility and the feeling that you're really sitting in the Oval Office.
67
Entertainment Weekly by Lisa Schwarzbaum
Engages in the cinematic equivalent of not inhaling.
67
Austin Chronicle by Marjorie Baumgarten
A potpourri of issue-oriented drama enlivened by superlative performances and smart dialogue.
60
Rolling Stone by Peter Travers
Until The Contender slips into partisan politics and platitudinous piety, it's a lively, entertaining ride.
75
Miami Herald by Rene Rodriguez
Heavy-handed and manipulative, it also proves formidably engrossing.
20
The film looks horrendous, poorly composed and staged, and the rhythm staggers.
100
Chicago Sun-Times by Roger Ebert
One of those rare movies where you leave the theater having been surprised and entertained, and then start arguing.
70
Washington Post by Stephen Hunter
As entertainment of a tawdry but compelling sort, The Contender certainly delivers.
40
The film's very premise, while initially promising, doesn't hold up to lengthy scrutiny.