The Dreadful
Lionsgate | Release Date: February 20, 2026 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
33
METASCORE
Generally unfavorable reviews based on 7 Critic Reviews
Positive:
1
Mixed:
3
Negative:
3

Critic Reviews

Critic scorePublicationBy date
67
TheWrapWilliam BibbianiMar 1, 2026
The Dreadful is worth watching for Harden’s perfidious performance alone. And whenever she’s not on-screen it’s worth the wait. Read full review
60
ColliderTherese LacsonFeb 20, 2026
Ultimately, Kermani's film is not strong enough to be called a complete success. Its lackluster ending and uneven characters weigh it down from potentially becoming a cult hit. Read full review
50
RogerEbert.comMarya E. GatesFeb 20, 2026
A morality play wrapped up in gothic horror tropes, “The Dreadful” is definitely committed to the bit, and its darkly medieval setting is a refreshing change of pace. I just wish it were a medieval tapestry that worked as a whole, rather than just in fits and starts. Read full review
42
The A.V. ClubJames GrebeyFeb 19, 2026
A too-modern sensibility and a drastic change from the original folktale lead the movie dreadfully astray. Read full review
30
The Hollywood ReporterFrank ScheckFeb 19, 2026
The Dreadful is the sort of film that prides itself on being a slow burn but ultimately more resembles a fizzle. Except for Marcia Gay Harden. By all means, give her character a sequel. Read full review
25
The Travers TakePeter TraversFeb 20, 2026
This medieval borefest drags down the talents of Sophie Turner and Kit Harington, but can be commended for one thing: truth in advertising. It’s dreadful to the max. Read full review
20
The New York TimesBrandon YuFeb 19, 2026
The knight might represent the contagion of human evil, and Anne’s story a journey of proto-feminism, but for all its big themes, the most resonant is the film’s title. Read full review
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