Most critics like The Mask, and nearly all of them like it for the same reason: Jim Carrey. The reviews describe the film as a vehicle built around his manic energy and physical comedy, and several say his performance is its best special effect. The effects are the other point of agreement, with the Tex Avery cartoon homage and the transformation sequences praised as bright, fast and inventive. Cameron Diaz’s debut and Peter Riegert’s deadpan detective get supporting mentions.
The reservations are about everything else. Several reviews call the plot derivative or thin and say the film aims no higher than being a playground for its star, though most treat that as a fair trade. The spread is narrow, with one exception: The New York Times finds it lazy and perfunctory, an effects-driven revenge fantasy with little story or character. Later reviews are warmer, with one rewatch finding a parable about drink and confidence underneath the gags.