The reviews are uniformly positive, with praise centred on the soul performances, the young ensemble and the humour of the band’s formation. Most critics find Alan Parker’s handling of the cast crucial: the performers become a convincing group, with comic timing that gives the scenes between songs their own energy. The Dublin setting and working-class banter also draw approval, while the auditions and backstage exchanges make a familiar story about starting a band feel lively and particular.
The reservations are modest rather than divisive. The Los Angeles Times notes occasional slickness, while The New York Times finds some slickness and unreality beneath the musical energy. Neither sees these as enough to spoil the pleasure. There is no negative dissent among these seven reviews, and the narrow spread reflects broad agreement on the film’s strengths, with small differences over its polish and credibility.