.png)
- The Critic (2024) stars Ian McKellen as Jimmy Erskine, a ruthless London theater critic entangled in blackmail and deceit.
- Directed by Anand Tucker, the film premiered at TIFF and releases in UK cinemas on September 13, 2024.
- Streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Netflix are expected to host the film after its theatrical run.
How to Watch The Critic Online – Streaming and Release Info
The Critic (2024), a British period thriller starring Ian McKellen, Gemma Arterton, and Mark Strong, is set in 1930s London, following the powerful yet morally compromised theater critic Jimmy Erskine (McKellen). The film, a mix of ambition, deceit, and blackmail, is based on the 2015 novel Curtain Call by Anthony Quinn and adapted for the screen by Patrick Marber.
The film had its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2023, and is scheduled for a wide release in the United Kingdom on September 13, 2024.
How to Watch The Critic
In Theaters:
The Critic will first be available in UK cinemas starting September 13, 2024. To catch it in theaters, check local cinema listings or platforms like Fandango or Cineworld for screening availability.
Streaming (Upcoming):
While The Critic is currently only available in theaters, it is expected to land on popular streaming platforms after its theatrical run. Based on the distribution history of Lionsgate and True Brit Entertainment, there is a high likelihood that The Critic will be made available for streaming on major platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Netflix (UK and US).
These platforms are known for hosting high-profile releases after their cinema run, so fans of Ian McKellen and period thrillers should be on the lookout for announcements regarding its digital release. Typically, films hit streaming platforms a few months after their initial cinema release, so it’s reasonable to expect The Critic to be available for online viewing by late 2024 or early 2025.
In addition to streaming services, The Critic may also become available for digital rental or purchase on platforms such as Google Play Movies, YouTube Movies, and Vudu. These platforms allow viewers to rent or buy the film for home viewing soon after its theater run.
For the most up-to-date information, check back here for streaming announcements, and we’ll provide all the latest details as they become available.
About the Director: Anand Tucker
Anand Tucker is an acclaimed British filmmaker known for his versatility across different genres, ranging from intimate character dramas to period thrillers. With a career spanning more than two decades, Tucker has established himself as a director who brings a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of character-driven narratives.
Born in Thailand and raised in the UK, Tucker first gained widespread recognition for directing the critically acclaimed film Hilary and Jackie (1998), which was nominated for multiple Academy Awards and BAFTAs. The film showcased his talent for creating emotionally resonant stories based on real-life events, a skill that has continued to define his work.
Tucker has also worked on several high-profile projects, such as Shopgirl (2005), a romantic comedy-drama adapted from Steve Martin’s novella, and The History of Mr. Polly (2007), a period television drama. His work is known for its nuanced performances and atmospheric visuals, often blending emotional complexity with stunning cinematography.
In The Critic (2024), Tucker teams up with screenwriter Patrick Marber to adapt Anthony Quinn’s 2015 novel Curtain Call. His direction brings a balance of suspense, drama, and dark humor to the story, allowing veteran actor Ian McKellen to shine in the lead role. Tucker’s ability to navigate the intricate web of deceit and ambition makes The Critic a compelling addition to his filmography.
About Ian McKellen
Ian McKellen is a legendary British actor with a career spanning over six decades. Known for his extraordinary versatility and commanding presence on stage and screen, McKellen has become one of the most respected figures in the world of acting. From Shakespearean theater to blockbuster franchises, he has portrayed a wide range of characters with remarkable skill.
McKellen's iconic roles include Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, as well as Magneto in the X-Men series, which brought him widespread global recognition. However, his roots are firmly planted in classical theater, where he has performed in numerous Shakespearean productions, including Macbeth and King Lear.
In The Critic (2024), McKellen takes on the role of Jimmy Erskine, a ruthless and cynical theater critic in 1930s London. Channeling some of his earlier work, such as his portrayal of Richard III, McKellen brings a complex, darkly charismatic figure to life. His ability to embody both charm and menace makes him the perfect choice for this role, cementing his place as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
What to Expect from The Critic
The Critic delivers a gripping narrative about a ruthless theater critic who becomes entangled in a web of deceit, secrets, and murder. Ian McKellen's portrayal of Jimmy Erskine is lauded as another standout role, channeling the dark charm and wit of his previous performances, reminiscent of his iconic turn as Richard III. The film explores the darker sides of ambition and manipulation within London's elite theater scene, with McKellen leading a cast full of complex characters.
Stay tuned for streaming updates on where to watch The Critic online after its UK theatrical release.
#TheCriticMovie #IanMcKellen #WhereToStream #BritishThriller #TheCriticStreaming
