The Childhood of a Leader

IFC Films | Release Date: July 22, 2016

6.8	USER SCORE Generally favorable reviews based on 26 Ratings

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virginiaproudDec 23, 2016

The concept promises much more than this movie delivers. Lot's of beautiful looking scenes where not much of consequence happens. A child that is indulged to be sure, ignored when suited and once beaten (that we see), but it doesn't adds upThe concept promises much more than this movie delivers. Lot's of beautiful looking scenes where not much of consequence happens. A child that is indulged to be sure, ignored when suited and once beaten (that we see), but it doesn't adds up to a childhood or parents that could be accused of sowing of the seeds of a sociopath. To further complicate, we are shown only a brief snap shot of this childhood, then a huge time jump to reveal, for the final few minutes... The Leader. That's about it. It was OK, heavy on artistic pretension and the ushering in of a new directing prodigy, which is possibly why critics are turning somersaults over it.… Expand

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TVJerryDec 14, 2018

Comparisons to the current A Star Is Born are inevitable, but there's no comparison on any level. This somewhat experimental film wears its edgy credentials all over the place: random visual styles, quirky editing, heavy-handed, evenComparisons to the current A Star Is Born are inevitable, but there's no comparison on any level. This somewhat experimental film wears its edgy credentials all over the place: random visual styles, quirky editing, heavy-handed, even melodramatic score (not to mention the clunky narration). It follows a young woman as she endures a traumatic event, then goes on to become a pop star. The role is first played by Raffey Cassidy, then after about 45 minutes, by Natalie Portman, Confusingly, all of the other main roles keep the same actors for both time periods. This role gives Portman a chance to strap on a New York accent, become a ranting, self-absorbed rock star with personal issues (nothing new here) and even perform a mini concert (songs by Sia). The film tries to make some statements and dazzle with showy style. Even so, there's still a weirdly compelling aspect that keeps it from being a totally self-indulgent mess.… Expand