The New York Times by Stephen Holden

For the most part, Paul Laverty's screenplay and the strong, naturalistic performances lend it a specificity that sets it apart.

Los Angeles Times by Kevin Thomas

All of Loach's formidable strengths, which include a sense of humor, come together in the wrenching A Fond Kiss.

TV Guide Magazine by Ken Fox

The film is beautifully told and superbly acted. More importantly, Paul Laverty's screenplay goes along way toward showing how the traditionalism that can turn a community inward on itself is often a response to racism, and in that sense the film's timing couldn't have been any better.

L.A. Weekly by Chuck Wilson

Gradually, and with a kind of inquisitive generosity, the filmmaker's scope expands to take in Casim's parents and two sisters, whose public shame and private despair at having the only son move in with a “goree” - a white girl - is made palpably, wrenchingly real.

Village Voice by Dennis Lim

Despite the agreeable lead performances, it's one of Loach's more forgettable films.

The Hollywood Reporter by Kirk Honeycutt

Things are too predictable. Perhaps the viewpoint is to blame.

Variety

The flatness of several of the key performances badly lets down this promising material.