60
The Independent by Clarisse Loughrey
True, grief is universal – but To Olivia never embraces the fact that stories draw their power from specificity. It’s what makes them feel real.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
60
The Irish Times by Donald Clarke
The film does a good job of dragging us from the darkest valleys of tragedy towards the gently sunlit uplands.
60
A well-intentioned biopic about a little-discussed but pivotal moment for both artists. If it’s never transcendent, it at least offers charming child performances, and Hawes is a particularly good fit as Neal.
50
The New York Times by Lisa Kennedy
How parents mourn a child’s death together — or apart — is among life’s aching mysteries. The director John Hay plumbs the poignancy well but avoids any tussling with Dahl’s legacy, tarnished by antisemitic statements.
40
The Guardian by Peter Bradshaw
This film comes to life in the two scenes when its hushed note of kindly reverence is broken.
40
As a straight-up redemptive sob story with no other purpose, it cooks the books.