76
Metascore
13 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 100Christian Science MonitorDavid SterrittChristian Science MonitorDavid SterrittWhat makes this small-scale drama so compelling is Pontecorvo's treatment of the main character.
- 90Washington PostDesson ThomsonWashington PostDesson ThomsonPassionate, literally shimmering movie.
- 90Los Angeles TimesKenneth TuranLos Angeles TimesKenneth TuranBesides Montand's splendid performance, The Wide Blue Road's other treat is seeing a film that's both old-fashioned enough to believe that social concerns can lead to satisfying drama and well-made enough to deliver on that belief. A film infused with that kind of passion never goes out of style.
- 80New Times (L.A.)Andy KleinNew Times (L.A.)Andy KleinDramatically effective, thanks in large part to Montand's impassioned performance.
- 80New York Magazine (Vulture)Peter RainerNew York Magazine (Vulture)Peter RainerIt's worth seeing, though, not only for its occasional moments of breathtaking beauty and sadness but also because its very rarity demands it.
- 80The New York TimesStephen HoldenThe New York TimesStephen HoldenA political movie that, partly through the powerful lead performance of its star, the relatively young Yves Montand, transcends its own politics.
- 75Seattle Post-IntelligencerWilliam ArnoldSeattle Post-IntelligencerWilliam ArnoldThe style is dated, and its neorealism seems forced and ineffective, but it's still delectable, and mostly for the things Pontecorvo hated about it: its delirious '50s color, and its stars, particularly Montand at the peak of virility.
- 70Washington PostStephen HunterWashington PostStephen HunterThe film is nowhere near the level of Pontecorvo's masterpiece, or even his subsequent flawed allegory on Vietnam, "Burn!," but is clearly the work of a natural coming into the full range of his powers.
- 63New York PostV.A. MusettoNew York PostV.A. MusettoiIt is clear that it would have benefited from black-and-white cinematography. And the melodramatic musical soundtrack is annoying and unnecessary.