66
Metascore
24 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- There is such clarity of vision here, a rare feat from a first-timer, that it feels as though it was crafted by a seasoned pro. The script is tight and full of humanity, never falling into the trap of being too earnest, and blends some genuine comedy with sequences of pathos and heartbreak. Everything feels grounded without an ounce of pretension.
- 83IndieWireSophie Monks KaufmanIndieWireSophie Monks KaufmanThis is an assured debut that sketches the relationship to state power that the marginalized contend with in London and the world beyond. Too muted in emotional effect to bring home a flirted-with theme of solidarity, the world-building still brings to life in the spirit that animates even the most besieged communities.
- 80Total FilmNeil SmithTotal FilmNeil SmithIt’s a straightforward morality story at heart, reminiscent at times of A Bronx Tale and with a sagacious neighbourhood DJ (played, rather fabulously, by ex-footballer Ian Wright) cut from the same cloth as Do the Right Thing’s Mister Señor Love Daddy. Yet it is such a stunningly and meticulously designed film that it continually captivates.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterLeslie FelperinThe Hollywood ReporterLeslie FelperinThe Kitchen also has plenty of inventive ideas, creates heady atmospheres in both its dark and lighter moments, and features vivid performances with a large ensemble.
- 70Screen DailyNikki BaughanScreen DailyNikki BaughanWhile the subtle world-building may be more consistently impressive than the familiar narrative, The Kitchen nevertheless makes its points with style.
- 63ObserverEmily ZemlerObserverEmily ZemlerKaluuya, who grew up on a council estate in Camden, clearly has a personal stake in The Kitchen. The actor has previously written short films, but this marks a solid debut feature for him that is stronger for its adept comment on the British class system.
- 63The Associated PressLindsey BahrThe Associated PressLindsey BahrThe Kitchen may lag at times, but it’s an astonishing and fully realized feat for two first-time feature directors with beautifully raw sequences of both emotion and action.
- 60The GuardianPeter BradshawThe GuardianPeter BradshawA worthwhile, engaged film.