: Reviews frequently highlight the film as a showcase for "actors playing actors," with the lead trio wringing laughs from even the most subtle gestures.
Reviewers on platforms like Letterboxd and IMDb offer a mix of high praise for its wit and occasional critiques of its pacing. “One of the best movies Ive seen in years!!” Rotten Tomatoes Official Competition YIFY
“Penélope Cruz and Antonio Banderas are terrific in the absurdly crazy yet recognizable characters they create. Many people might see themselves in this even if they're not actors or directors.” Letterboxd · 1 year ago : Reviews frequently highlight the film as a
: The film skewers the divide between Banderas's character—a globe-trotting blockbuster star—and Martínez's character—a "serious" and pretentious stage actor. Many people might see themselves in this even
“It’s the rare iteration that’s nuanced enough to understand that self-awareness does not equal absolution.” IMDb
: A central draw is the bizarre rehearsal process led by Lola (Cruz). One memorable scene involves her suspending a massive boulder over her actors to force "authentic" emotional responses.