Florence Foster Jenkins
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: August 12, 2016
7.0
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Generally favorable reviews based on 154 Ratings
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106
Mixed:
41
Negative:
7
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8
BHBarryAug 13, 2016
Florence Foster Jenkins" is a movie that stars Meryl Streep in the title role ably supported by Hugh Grant as the husband of this socialite and supporter of the arts who, although dedicated to music and to singing, was more mocked thanFlorence Foster Jenkins" is a movie that stars Meryl Streep in the title role ably supported by Hugh Grant as the husband of this socialite and supporter of the arts who, although dedicated to music and to singing, was more mocked than appreciated by those who heard her.
Enough cannot be said of Ms. Streep who portrays her character with grace and dignity amidst the jeers of her audiences and, through it all, evokes a compassion and sympathy to the viewer. A lesser actor could have made a comedic buffoon of her performance but this is, after all, Meryl Streep, and she strides the delicate balance between a comical and serious performance with the scalpel that only great artists can achieve. The film is based on the life of the real Florence Foster Jenkins. Hugh Grant, as her dedicated and loyal husband joins. Ms. Streep in receiving accolades for his sensitive portrayal as her enabling spouse and companion. Unfortunately, as with most films based on real events, the writer and director are tied to the facts, whether they be interesting or not. In this case, its hard to give this film too high a rating in spite of the fine acting performances because the plot is thin and much too simple. However, and because it represents an interesting and little known part of the world of music in the late 19th and mid 20th centuries, the film deserves to be seen and, for that reason, I give it an 8.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
shining4moonAug 14, 2016
One of the BEST STREEP film...so funny & also touching.....i was laughing so hard in some scenes....Hugh Grant is also very good ... I highly recommend it....
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
samichsupernovaSep 29, 2016
This is in my top 3 of the year so far. A truly beautiful film that strikes just the right tone and features some strong performances from Streep and Grant (who gives his first real performance in a LONG time). Simon Helberg also does veryThis is in my top 3 of the year so far. A truly beautiful film that strikes just the right tone and features some strong performances from Streep and Grant (who gives his first real performance in a LONG time). Simon Helberg also does very good work as Cosme Mcmoon. Florence is truly a lovable character whom you just can't dislike. I felt this film was very warm-hearted in that even though it's extremely funny, it treats the title character with respect and portrays her life and relationships with complexity and realism. The dichotomy between the "scoffers and mockers" and the pure naive heart of Streep's Jenkins, who loves to sing for the pure joy of performing (no matter how terrible she is) and is a true patron of the arts brings up some interesting questions about art and happiness (and which one is more important), about the subjective quality of music, the way love takes different forms, and about the bubbles that many people end up living within, perhaps without noticing it. I left this one with a warm and happy feeling in my heart. This film is a classic, IMO. You don't need to be a lover of art or music to appreciate it but if you are you'll likely love it on a very deep level. The ending was also very strong.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
Brent_MarchantAug 28, 2016
The stellar performances of Meryl Streep, Hugh Grant and Simon Helberg definitely elevate the material of this sometimes-schizophrenic biopic, which has a little trouble striking the right balance between comedy and drama. The film hits theThe stellar performances of Meryl Streep, Hugh Grant and Simon Helberg definitely elevate the material of this sometimes-schizophrenic biopic, which has a little trouble striking the right balance between comedy and drama. The film hits the right notes in its period piece production values and "musical numbers," but the pacing and script never quite even out as effectively as they could. Enjoy this one for the performances but don't be disappointed if it doesn't quite live up to expectations.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
lucbevibrasilAug 12, 2016
Florence Foster Jenkins can bring funny and touching moments, but not without abusing the excellent performance of Meryl Streep, the charism of Simon Helberg and one of the best roles of Hugh Grant. Stephen Frears does a good job, especiallyFlorence Foster Jenkins can bring funny and touching moments, but not without abusing the excellent performance of Meryl Streep, the charism of Simon Helberg and one of the best roles of Hugh Grant. Stephen Frears does a good job, especially the careful characterization of the 40's.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
friskypaletteAug 14, 2016
This is a charming movie. Meryl Streep is brilliant once again. She never plays Florence as a charicature, but makes her into a fully blown person. The rest of the cast is also very strong. The movie is both funny and very touching.This is a charming movie. Meryl Streep is brilliant once again. She never plays Florence as a charicature, but makes her into a fully blown person. The rest of the cast is also very strong. The movie is both funny and very touching. There are many delightful moments in the film. It's a welcome change to the typical summer fare.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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7
EpicLadySpongeAug 12, 2016
Florence Foster Jenkins does something that movies couldn't bother doing anyways. A story... about a terrible singer. Even at a terrible rate, I'll claim the 'Better than Awkward' badge around the title character, who is portrayed by MarylFlorence Foster Jenkins does something that movies couldn't bother doing anyways. A story... about a terrible singer. Even at a terrible rate, I'll claim the 'Better than Awkward' badge around the title character, who is portrayed by Maryl Streep. Because its beautiful act of attempting, liking of Meryl Streep, and the start to a new era I can't even explain, Florence Foster Jenkins could be just another one of those movies that must be seen.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
TVJerryAug 16, 2016
Meryl Streep creates another memorable character: This one is based on the real woman who was rich and loved music, but was a hilariously horrible singer. She makes the character delightful, sweet and touching. As her devotedly protectiveMeryl Streep creates another memorable character: This one is based on the real woman who was rich and loved music, but was a hilariously horrible singer. She makes the character delightful, sweet and touching. As her devotedly protective husband, Hugh Grant is solid and charming, but it's Simon Helberg, as her pianist, who steals the movie with his hysterical physical comedy. The scene where we hear her sing for the first time is a comic highlight of the year. She's blissfully oblivious to her lack of talent and decides to play Carnegie Hall. Thus spins the conflict that anchors the plot. Yes, her singing is astonishingly bad, but director Stephen Freer's loving approach elevates the film above a one-joke song.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
preciouskikiAug 20, 2016
I didn't expect to like this movie much, because the ads and previews made it look a bit tiresome, but I was pleasantly surprised, as I enjoyed it very much. It was Hugh Grant's best work in years.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
jluaOct 2, 2016
A great tragic-comedy turned film with an excellent script, memorable acting, and very funny and tender moments. Merrill Streep is, as always, memorable, with a probable new Oscar nomination for her collection. Also very good is SimonA great tragic-comedy turned film with an excellent script, memorable acting, and very funny and tender moments. Merrill Streep is, as always, memorable, with a probable new Oscar nomination for her collection. Also very good is Simon Helberg, who IMHO also deserves a nomination for supporting actor. I personally found Hugh Grant the weakest part of the film. Very recommended.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
SpangleAug 20, 2016
Extremely safe and straight forward, this is certainly not up there with some of director Stephen Frears' more challenging works, but is a thoroughly enjoyable, sad, and funny film about a woman with a big heart who had a truly awful voice.Extremely safe and straight forward, this is certainly not up there with some of director Stephen Frears' more challenging works, but is a thoroughly enjoyable, sad, and funny film about a woman with a big heart who had a truly awful voice. Meryl Streep is very good in the lead role and Hugh Grant turns in a typically charismatic performance as her doting husband. Both have received Oscar buzz for their roles. Personally, I do not know if they were quite to that level, but you never know what the rest of the year will deliver. If either are nominated, they were certainly quite good, so it would not be totally unjustified. As for the film itself, the costume and make-up are terrific. However, the problems lie with Frears. Aside from its straight-forward nature, the film is sort of unbalanced. It wants us to sympathize with Florence and show how ruthlessly she was mocked and laughed at by those who did not know her. Yes, she was bad, but dammit she tried and poured her heart and soul into every note. It made her truly happy and filled her heart with joy. Who are we to mock that? Yet, then the film turns her bad singing into comedy, encouraging us to laugh at her with long, drawn out scenes of her singing with reaction shots of the rest of the cast to her singing. These scenes are hysterical, but man oh man, does it not gel with us sympathizing with her. Are we to feel bad for Florence or just join the chorus of laughter? I have to imagine Frears wanted us to feel for her, but fails in this endeavor as the film plays more along the lines of a comedy than anything else. While it was funny, do not get me wrong, it could have been a far more powerful film if it did not simply play into cheap laughs at this poor woman's expense. Overall, Florence Foster Jenkins is a pretty, well-acted film that simply cannot decide what it wanted to try to do.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
foxgroveAug 12, 2016
The commercial response to art house and Cesar winning French hit Marguerite adds nothing to an already one note joke scenario. Both films have tried to make this true story interesting, but whilst the potential is there it just resolutelyThe commercial response to art house and Cesar winning French hit Marguerite adds nothing to an already one note joke scenario. Both films have tried to make this true story interesting, but whilst the potential is there it just resolutely refuses to take flight on film. This version although positioned more prominently as a comedy is definitely not the laugh fest hoped for. The problem is that as soon as the singer who can’t sing a note is revealed the film just doesn’t have anywhere further to go as a comedy. Meryl Streep works valiantly in the role and is definitely the film’s saving grace giving a broad performance that is, by turn, both sad and (occasionally) funny. Simon Helberg is also a very enjoyable as the pianist accompanying Florence who worries about his reputation even as he pockets the generous wage from his less than talented pupil. Like its French counterpart, production values are high with gorgeous Art- Direction and costumes on display. However, the inherently disappointing failure of both films leaves one questioning if we really needed either?… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
LeZeeOct 24, 2016
Nothing is greater than to have a supportive life partner by side.

I follow closely what films are announced and what are getting released. Sometimes its common that some films comes out without my knowledge, particularly non-HollywoodNothing is greater than to have a supportive life partner by side.

I follow closely what films are announced and what are getting released. Sometimes its common that some films comes out without my knowledge, particularly non-Hollywood English language films. This British film was about a wealthy couple from the New York, especially the husband who tries his best to fulfill his seriously ill wife's dream to be an opera singer. The problem is she's not any good. Not just him, but everybody who is close to them and once laughed at her, try to understand them and give their support. But not all the occasion seems to remain the same. So on one such a big event, the disaster strikes and how it affects the couple is the rest of the tale to disclose.

A very surprising film. I thought it was just a comedy like it brings small smiles on our face, but I laughed out loud on many occasions. This is definitely a right time, because I felt like it was a music and cinematic version of the American presidential candidate Don Trump. Yep, there not much difference, but still this film is some way inspiring, not Trump. It says you must never give up on your dream. As much as you laugh watching it, as much you realise how hard chasing a dream to be if one is very passionate about something, but does not have the talent to reach the height. The message is very similar to the film 'Eddie the Eagle'. Do you think everybody got talent in the world, so I believe you should watch this and you will know why I'm telling you to watch it.

When I read about the film's storyline, I thought it was so silly. But when I learnt it is a biographical film, that interested me to have a look at it. It is truly an unbelievable film, in a sense of humour and overall a good way. The couple was rich, so they could do anything they want just like what Donald Trump believes. But both the things are not the same, especially this one is more about the real life struggle against the odds. In some parts, it gets more emotional and I loved that final line said by the wife. It's always, the participation that counts, not how you fared it.

Oh my god, another Oscars nominee is almost certain for the record holder Meryl Streep. Hugh Grant was equally amazing and this is one of the best of him I have seen, particularly in the recent times. One of the best main roles for Simon Helberg, he was not next best after the Streep and Grant. I still feel this film is underrated. The director of 'Phenomena' was very good at handling the stuff for the film to get its best shape. I think this is one of this year's must see film and surely recommend it to all.

8/10… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
GinaKAug 14, 2016
I found this film very enjoyable, even though I know a lot about opera (I worked for an opera singer) and about Jenkins’ era, and obviously this was no historical re-creation. For me, the main problem was that Meryl Streep could not bringI found this film very enjoyable, even though I know a lot about opera (I worked for an opera singer) and about Jenkins’ era, and obviously this was no historical re-creation. For me, the main problem was that Meryl Streep could not bring herself to sing really badly as she would have needed to in order to say something interesting about and be faithful to Jenkins. Perhaps that’s why a lot of the reviews I read didn’t make a lot of sense. There was no theme here, just a nicely done movie – and that’s an achievement to be proud of. The audience was quiet and even sat through the historical material at the end (including pictures of the real Jenkins), so I give the entire cast (everyone was very good) and the director a lot of credit. For me the problem was the script, which was well done but did not say anything interesting about art or music or singing.… Expand
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7
BrianMcCriticDec 16, 2016
A film that kept my attention with its gravitas it's properly made and well delivered. Meryl Streep is always a master class actor and Grant and Helberg are great as support. I didn't fall for all the emotional beats, but solid none the less. B+
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10
shpostalAug 28, 2016
I had actually read about Florence Foster Jenkins, the socialite who dearly loved music but her love and abilities were very very far apart. It's a sad tale ultimately, and the bio movie is one of the best of the year.
Meryl StreepI had actually read about Florence Foster Jenkins, the socialite who dearly loved music but her love and abilities were very very far apart. It's a sad tale ultimately, and the bio movie is one of the best of the year.
Meryl Streep turns in a wonderful performance, an Oscar worthy one at that, and Hugh Grant matches her step for step as she portrays this woman. Because her loving husband played by Hugh Grant wants her to be happy and is determined to please her as much as humanly possible, her concerts are given to other friends in her socialite circle who were quite kind in real life by always praising Jenkins while knowing full well she couldn't sing worth a damn.
More touching was the fact that Jenkins suffered from syphillus courtesy of her first husband at the age of 18. Knowing sex with her second husband could kill him, theirs was a marriage of abstinence while she kindly allowed him a dalliance with another woman. As the movie suggested, it did not diminish his admiration and love for her.
That slavish attention carried over to carefully screening her private performances, bribing music papers and whomever else could possibly devastate her with a bad review. However, in 1944, she was moved by the sacrifices of our armed forces and announced she would reserve 1000 tickets and play Carnegie Hall, to the shock of her husband, the pianist played very well by Simon Bell and her friends. To top this off, she also near the same time recorded a record that was receiving airplay and gathering attention from those who knew how bad she was and in their defense, some thought deliberate.
The results are the true cap of the movie, and during the film we get laughs, determination, courage and most important love that allowed Jenkins to live far longer than most folks with her disease.
It's not your usual movie topic, but the film is done impeccably, Streep is brilliant, and you come away moved. We need more movies and people like Florence Foster Jenkins.… Expand
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9
GuntherUltrabolSep 9, 2016
I enjoyed it very much. You can't help but laugh, and there is a good chance you'll cry a little. I think Hugh Grant's performance was awesome. I single him out because I think he carried the film even more than Meryl did. I'm a guy whoI enjoyed it very much. You can't help but laugh, and there is a good chance you'll cry a little. I think Hugh Grant's performance was awesome. I single him out because I think he carried the film even more than Meryl did. I'm a guy who normally wouldnt' have watched this one, so if you are a guy and your woman wants to see it, go ahead... you'll enjoy it and score some points as well.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
dhppyDec 20, 2016
The film looks great. It's well directed and all the actors are strong. Unfortunately, it has a thin plot that keeps the film from being anything more than pleasant. Perhaps if they went for a broader tone with the comedy like My FavoriteThe film looks great. It's well directed and all the actors are strong. Unfortunately, it has a thin plot that keeps the film from being anything more than pleasant. Perhaps if they went for a broader tone with the comedy like My Favorite Year or Victor/Victoria, then it could have been something memorable.… Expand
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8
kathytreeceNov 10, 2016
Florence Foster Jenkins. Saw this movie at the Riverview. What an interesting character she is. And the main actors were very well cast. I enjoyed it.
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8
JonZsuSep 1, 2016
Delightful, smooth and so entertaining. Ends up with a perfectly bittersweet note, Florence Foster Jenkins tells a story about a wonderful dream that is bigger than truth. There are so much love in this story, whatever it's Jenkins' devotionDelightful, smooth and so entertaining. Ends up with a perfectly bittersweet note, Florence Foster Jenkins tells a story about a wonderful dream that is bigger than truth. There are so much love in this story, whatever it's Jenkins' devotion to music or the love and friendship that she received. With several noticeable great performance by the cast and the lighthearted direction, the film might be one of the most refreshingly good biography of the year.… Expand
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9
granetoAug 15, 2016
Meryl Streep is wonderful once again. This film is very funny, very sad, and very touching. The evocation of period New York is beautiful. A visually stunning and heart warming film.
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9
dhersrudAug 20, 2016
This is a great movie. I expect it to receive numerous award nominations (Academy Award, Golden Globes, SAG, etc.) Meryl is tremendous as usual, but Hugh Grant and Simon Helberg are equally as spectacular. I was not familiar with Nina AriandaThis is a great movie. I expect it to receive numerous award nominations (Academy Award, Golden Globes, SAG, etc.) Meryl is tremendous as usual, but Hugh Grant and Simon Helberg are equally as spectacular. I was not familiar with Nina Arianda but she literally stole her scenes with the other actors (she won a Tony in 2012 as Best Lead Actress in a play). Hopefully she will be doing more feature films. This is a movie for anyone who loves cinema, great acting, a wonderful story and an thoroughly enjoyable evening at the movies.… Expand
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7
shiftworkerNov 30, 2016
Heart-warming light comedy. Hugh Grant is a ham actor and Meryl Streep fancies herself a singer. Their marriage allows his infidelity and he will do anything to encourage her, but she is not well and her singing is ... different. GoodHeart-warming light comedy. Hugh Grant is a ham actor and Meryl Streep fancies herself a singer. Their marriage allows his infidelity and he will do anything to encourage her, but she is not well and her singing is ... different. Good performances all round bring out the caring nature of this very human couple.… Expand
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8
PHANTOMRAIDERAug 22, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Meryl does a fine job on movies about the lives of women. Out of Africa of course, even Ricki and the Flash, and this one is right in there. Not a classic movie, but a classic bit of acting....probably another nomination. It is an interesting story about an interesting woman in interesting circumstances. I liked it enough that I listened to Actual recordings of Florence that somehow managed to survive. Sorry, Meryl, but she was nowhere as bad as you were in your portrayal. Hugh Grant delivers in a workmanlike fashion.… Expand
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7
skeptic303Sep 30, 2016
While I was watching Florence Foster Jenkins, it reminded me of a foreign film that came to theater this year as well with an extremely similar plot: Marguerite. Both were about women who had a desire for singing and were faced with an ironicWhile I was watching Florence Foster Jenkins, it reminded me of a foreign film that came to theater this year as well with an extremely similar plot: Marguerite. Both were about women who had a desire for singing and were faced with an ironic situation that the audience watched unfold: they were actually the worst singers.
This movie was very respectable for what it was. it had decent characters and a great situation at play. Meryl Streep again acts very well here as always. And just like the movie Marguerite, it had quite a bit of comedy, except that here, it seems more emphasized.
Though sadly, like many movies based on a true story, we come to realize the conflict soaring above the characters. In this movie though, perhaps this is my opinion, but I found the characters a little too silly to take seriously, and I couldn't relate to them as much as I could with their situation. While I thought this movie was decent and is worth checking out, I can't find myself re-watching it much if at all.… Expand
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8
NealAmandusDec 3, 2016
Meryl Streep strikes again. She is fiercely wonderful in this character, making this movie a joy. Hugh Grant and Simon Helberg are delightful as well. Frears delivers a well made drama.
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8
tobisanJan 4, 2017
A movie full of great performances. Meryl Streep amazing as always, Hugh Grant did one of his best performances and Simon Helberg was spectacular. A very funny and touching story that takes us back to the world of 40s music
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