68
Metascore
22 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 100San Francisco ChronicleMick LaSalleSan Francisco ChronicleMick LaSalleHenry Fool is far and away writer-director Hal Hartley's best movie.
- 91Entertainment WeeklyLisa SchwarzbaumEntertainment WeeklyLisa SchwarzbaumResonant examination of friendship, fame, cultural trends, and the creative process.
- 90Los Angeles TimesKevin ThomasLos Angeles TimesKevin ThomasThe result is a career milestone [for Hal Hartley] and a film that could become a landmark in American independent cinema.
- 88Chicago TribuneMichael WilmingtonChicago TribuneMichael WilmingtonMovies about literary lives don't always catch fire, but Henry Fool is a glorious exception: an austerely funny, brilliantly written and acted serio-comic tale of two writers. [17 Jul 1998]
- 88ReelViewsJames BerardinelliReelViewsJames BerardinelliThis film is the complete package, and offers a thoroughly satisfying two-plus hours in a darkened theater.
- 78Austin ChronicleMarjorie BaumgartenAustin ChronicleMarjorie BaumgartenWith Henry Fool, however, Hartley has made his most dynamic and accomplished film to date.
- 75The Globe and Mail (Toronto)Liam LaceyThe Globe and Mail (Toronto)Liam LaceyHal Hartley's latest film, an odd and mentally stimulating black comedy that may or may not have a point. In any case, the ride is delectably weird and entertaining. [17 Jul 1998]
- 70Chicago ReaderJonathan RosenbaumChicago ReaderJonathan RosenbaumWhat eventually emerges isn't nearly as achieved or convincing as the neighborhood portrait, but even when it ultimately overwhelms the characters, it's full of juice, humor, and nuance.
- 63Boston GlobeJay CarrBoston GlobeJay CarrWriting ignites miracles in Henry Fool, and Hartley's exquisite control over his compositions and pacing makes the outrages, biological and otherwise, funnier than you might believe. [01 Jul 1998]
- 63Chicago Sun-TimesRoger EbertChicago Sun-TimesRoger EbertYou watch, you are absorbed, and from scene to scene, Henry Fool seems to be adding up, but then your hand closes on air. I am left unsure of my response - of any response.