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What If

17 October 2014English1h 17m
out of 10
Mixedlukewarm or divided
Monk Score · 5 critic reviews

Radcliffe and Kazan charm, but the formulaic script holds this rom-com back.

Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.

  • Praised: lead actor chemistry and charm
  • Criticised: predictable plot and genre clichés

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Critic consensus

What 5 critics are saying

Critical reception for What If is mixed, with most reviewers landing in the middling range. The lead performances by Daniel Radcliffe and Zoe Kazan are the most consistently praised element, with several critics finding the chemistry between the two protagonists engaging and charming enough to carry the film. However, a recurring criticism is the predictable plotting and reliance on genre clichés, with at least one critic singling out the script as a significant weakness. The general consensus is that the film is a passable, mildly enjoyable watch that struggles to distinguish itself or leave a lasting impression.

How the 5 scores spread

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10

AI-generated summary of 5 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (5)

Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated

  1. Top critic

    IBNLive

    Film review ·

    What If isn't particularly memorable; this isn't a film that'll stay with you long after you've left the cinema. But it's a pleasing enough watch with plenty charming moments. You'll even forgive the predictable plotting because the actors steal your heart. Give it a chance, you won't regret it.
  2. Top critic

    Mid-Day

    Film review ·

    The film also piles on cliché after cliché, making the happy ending painfully predictable. Director Michael Dowse has made great films in the past and he does his best to bring Elan Mastai's terrible script to life. But there's only so much that one can do with a mediocre plot and unlikable characters.
  3. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    Delightful but somewhat un-memorable, the energy of the film lies in the push-pull conflict between the two protagonists handled deftly by Radcliffe and Kazan - the whole question of love that cannot be...and hoping against all odds that it can.
  4. BookMyShow

    Film review ·

    A film for all those who are simply in love with the idea of love. Whether you're a romantic or a cynic, this will leave you with a smile.
  5. Rediff

    Film review ·

    A fairly enjoyable way to pass an otherwise free afternoon, What If attempts to be different from the rest in the genre but fails to leave a mark.

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