Son of Rambow (2007)

Goodridge gives the film a strongly positive verdict, praising its nostalgic portrait of the 1980s and celebration of children’s creativity. He especially singles out the delightfully un-self-conscious performances by Bill Milner and Will Poulter.

Jolin finds the film deeply effective and surprisingly touching, despite a lapse in storytelling discipline midway through. He especially praises the naturalistic performances and the gradually unfolding friendship between the boys.

Papamichael gives the film a warm, positive review. She praises Bill Milner’s charming performance as a shy boy drawn into making a Rambo-inspired home movie.

Kermode finds the film a joyful, winning grown-up kids’ movie. He praises the innocent energy of the young leads and their homemade special effects.

The critic finds the film imperfect but irresistibly charming, heartfelt and consistently engaging. They praise its naturalistic period detail and the way its imaginative flights are grounded in friendship and emotion.

Koresky finds the film playful and charming, though overly polished and uneven in its period details. He especially praises the boys’ performances and the emotionally effective closing moment.

Schager finds the film charming and emotionally sincere at first, but says routine sentimentality weakens it. He praises the leads’ guileless dynamic and the joy and inventiveness of their homemade movie.

Koehler finds the film a modestly eccentric, sweetly raucous entertainment whose late plot turns feel rushed. He praises the engaging performances of Bill Milner and Will Poulter, which preserve the film’s early charm.

Chocano finds the film stylish and sweetly nostalgic, but ultimately lacking in depth or momentum. She praises its visual style while faulting its failure to explore the ideas behind its Rambo inspiration.

Byrge finds the film poorly made and incoherent, despite ingredients that might attract children. He acknowledges some hilarious slapstick but faults the story for lacking a clear goal and cohesion.

The critic finds this a delightful, emotionally resonant comedy, likely to be a box-office success. She singles out the script’s humor and emotional weight for praise.

The critic finds the film a rewarding, warm-hearted story about friendship. They praise how Jennings uses the boys’ homemade Rambo sequel as a springboard for their adventures and camaraderie.

The critic finds the film uneven and says its tonal clashes squander a strong premise. The children’s guerrilla filmmaking scenes earn praise for their humor and imaginative energy.