71
Metascore
6 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 75Slant MagazineJesse CataldoSlant MagazineJesse CataldoA definitive reflection on the work of two great directors and the specific slices of cinema they so fruitfully cultivated.
- 75The A.V. ClubNoel MurrayThe A.V. ClubNoel MurrayThe ordinariness of this film—and the flatness of its video-shot images, relative to Blank’s beautiful-looking ’70s films — isn’t a significant drawback, given how eloquent Leacock can be.
- 75New York PostFarran Smith NehmeNew York PostFarran Smith NehmeThe result is quite a ramble: Leacock talks about how equipment influences filmmaking, the making of a custard and the wanderings of his cat. Through it all, happily, his company is a pleasure.
- 70Village VoiceSam WeisbergVillage VoiceSam WeisbergRose is a pleasant affair, but you might want to know far more about Blank and far less about, say, pot-au-feu.
- 70The New York TimesNicolas RapoldThe New York TimesNicolas RapoldDocumentary masters like Mr. Leacock and Mr. Blank have long been drawn to filming other artists, even though the enigma of artistic endeavor may appear to elude portrayal on film. But in How to Smell a Rose, it’s just as important to feel the relationship between these two, with Mr. Leacock as something of a mentor.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterJohn DeForeThe Hollywood ReporterJohn DeForeLeacock proves to be charming company, sprinkling sometimes hilarious personal anecdotes among the high points of his career.