67
Metascore
16 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 90TheWrapCarlos AguilarTheWrapCarlos AguilarBolstered by an infectiously reckless joie de vivre and artfully handled hard-hitting truths, Cuties diffuses the impulse to dismiss it as just one more example of a trend.
- 80Film ThreatFilm ThreatThe performance of Fathia Youssouf is impressive as she transforms her diminutive, naïve self into a towering force.
- 80Los Angeles TimesJustin ChangLos Angeles TimesJustin ChangSociety’s rampant sexualization of preadolescent girls is one topic that Doucouré subjects to tough critical scrutiny; she’s made an empathetic and analytical movie, not an exploitative one.
- 75The PlaylistAndrew BundyThe PlaylistAndrew BundyIts approach may not always work, but the film is undeniably ambitious, and implemented in an affecting way.
- 75Slant MagazinePat BrownSlant MagazinePat BrownMaïmouna Doucouré has a remarkable grasp of the irrationality and volatility of middle-school social dynamics.
- 67IndieWireKate ErblandIndieWireKate ErblandAlthough Doucouré steeps Cuties in emotion and experience, she abandons its grace to make crazier gestures.
- 60The Hollywood ReporterDavid RooneyThe Hollywood ReporterDavid RooneyWriter-director Maïmouna Doucouré's captivating but structurally shaky first feature is stronger on setup than development or payoff, becoming less controlled as its opposing forces of tradition and rebellion collide.
- 60New York Magazine (Vulture)Bilge EbiriNew York Magazine (Vulture)Bilge EbiriCuties is not a blunt screed or a finger-wagging cautionary tale in either direction — which is one reason why anyone watching the film looking for clear messages about right and wrong is bound to be disappointed, maybe even outraged.
- 50Screen DailyFionnuala HalliganScreen DailyFionnuala HalliganA film to respect for its audacity, admire for its lead female performance perhaps, but also view as dramatically contrived.
- 50VarietyAmy NicholsonVarietyAmy NicholsonCuties' job is to coil the contrasting messages and spin them until her lead falls down dizzy, which can make the film feel as subtle as a headache.