Red Joan (2018)

The critic finds the film a taut, engaging old-fashioned spy thriller, though its central motivation stretches credibility. She particularly praises Judi Dench and Sophie Cookson, whose performances make Joan’s idealism persuasive.

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The accessible page does not reveal the critic’s verdict. It identifies the film’s two lead performers but gives no readable praise or complaint.

Erbland finds the film underwhelming, arguing that its fractured structure and dull older-Joan material weaken the story. She praises Sophie Cookson’s younger Joan and finds the flashback sequences more compelling and revealing.

O’Sullivan finds the drama stodgy and misleading, arguing that it distorts the real spy’s politics. She praises Judi Dench’s impish performance but says the film gives her too little to do.

Quinlan finds the film safe, limp and forgettable despite its bold subject. She praises Judi Dench’s performance and the effort to clarify Joan’s political motives, but says the role is limited.

Jones finds the film a drab, cliché-ridden melodrama despite its compelling true-story basis. He praises Judi Dench’s casting and performance, and notes Sophie Cookson is capable in the flashbacks.

The critic calls the film a drab disappointment despite Judi Dench’s enlivening presence. The review singles out the musty Cold War thriller as a weakness.

Turan finds the film polished and diverting but ultimately hollow and unconvincing. He praises Sophie Cookson’s capable performance, while faulting the film’s attempt to justify Joan’s spying as a cause of peace.

The review is negative, finding the spy drama dull and unconvincing. It singles out the film’s failure to make its subject’s choices compelling.

Warmann finds the espionage drama bland, conventional and forgettable despite its promising premise. He praises Judi Dench and Sophie Cookson for strong central performances, especially Cookson’s convincing portrayal of Joan’s younger self.

Hutchinson finds the espionage drama stodgy, cosy and mediocre. She praises Judi Dench’s performance in old age, while faulting the repetitive flashbacks and implausible plotting.

Harvey finds the film dreary, unconvincing and uninspired. He particularly faults the weak chemistry and flat portrayal of Joan’s motives.

Kermode finds the film less substantial than its premise suggests, with spy-film fans likely to leave disappointed. She praises its exploration of historical issues and culture change, as well as Judi Dench’s performance.

The review finds the film dramatically weak and its story’s motivations unconvincing, despite its easy, nostalgic appeal. It singles out the underused Judi Dench and the failure to build tension around Sophie Cookson’s performance.