Metacritic reviews

Of the idiosyncratic ''little'' movies that Soderbergh has made to clear his head (Full Frontal, Schizopolis), this is the first that truly connects.

Bubble is a strong film with a gorgeously minimal script by Coleman Hough. Soderbergh has directed his actors to perfection, rendering them indistinguishable from their roles. And, though the story resorts to sensationalism for its conflict, the film is eloquent in its portrayal of silence, depression, repression, denial and the woes of the Midwestern white working class.

A potent and provocative look at life unhinged. Bubble is said to be the first in a series of six low-budget films from Soderbergh. If they all rock the boat like this one, bring 'em on.

The film doesn't judge or prod its characters, just watches the long fuse of the plot dwindle, then explode.

It's almost condescending, as though Soderbergh were challenging himself to make Middle America interesting. And yet the movie IS interesting, almost in spite of itself.

Likeable if unexciting little tale.

The three stars are all perfectly naturalistic, but their roles are too bloodless and their patter too dry.

The story is so flat and transparent in the telling, so empty of psychological mystery and depth, it skates dangerously close to condescension.

Bubble is among his (Soderbergh) worst films. What in the world was he thinking with this?

An embarrassment to all concerned, the film was written, directed and produced by Soderbergh for reasons that are not readily apparent.