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4

martingparisDec 17, 2022

A syrupy teen-movie dripping with 60's Americana. Spielberg obviously needed to tell his story, but he should've made another home movie instead and kept it ... at home.

6 of 6 users found this helpful60

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4

royalguy07Jan 4, 2023

Stevey (I'm assuming he hates being called that by anyone besides his mother after this movie) Spielberg can do whatever he wants deservedly so. And boy am I glad this is out of the way for him, the last hour is pretty uninteresting andStevey (I'm assuming he hates being called that by anyone besides his mother after this movie) Spielberg can do whatever he wants deservedly so. And boy am I glad this is out of the way for him, the last hour is pretty uninteresting and poorly acted. Why we shifted to a high school story is completely unclear to me.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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5

Method559Jan 18, 2023

Boring, over acted and cheesy. I am a huge fan of the actors and Steven Spielberg yet I fail to see why people are ignoring just how "Hallmark" this movie is. By that I mean corny and mediocre acting. I'm very surprised and was really lookingBoring, over acted and cheesy. I am a huge fan of the actors and Steven Spielberg yet I fail to see why people are ignoring just how "Hallmark" this movie is. By that I mean corny and mediocre acting. I'm very surprised and was really looking forward to seeing this film. I gave it a five and not less because of the cinematography and set design was excellent. Very disappointed in the performance of amazing actors. Seth Rogan was not a good choice for this film, it's hard not to see pineapple express or knocked up when watching him because that's the same type of character he played in this movie, the comedy relief. He did a better job in The Human Pickle portraying something other than just simple comic relief. Over all, I can't see this movie sweeping the Oscars.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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6

istanbulJan 25, 2023

I hate to say this but this movie would not be in anybody's radar, let alone the oscars, had it not been for its director. This tells you two things, first is that the movie is directed well. Second is, even with that direction, it isI hate to say this but this movie would not be in anybody's radar, let alone the oscars, had it not been for its director. This tells you two things, first is that the movie is directed well. Second is, even with that direction, it is forgettable, formulaic, and unoriginal. Much like Seth Rogen's character.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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4

joelgreenbergFeb 19, 2023

Having read reviews and year-end ,best of' lists, I anticipated something other than the film i saw. The Fabelmans is rare for me in that the characters and the events fail to ring true. However much the plot is tied directly to Spielberg'sHaving read reviews and year-end ,best of' lists, I anticipated something other than the film i saw. The Fabelmans is rare for me in that the characters and the events fail to ring true. However much the plot is tied directly to Spielberg's life story, the writing is clumsy, forced and oddly detached. I understand that mine is a minority opinion, but I have to wonder whether the name Spielberg has led so many critics and prize-givers to offer such excessive praise.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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5

Lynn58Jan 17, 2023

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Incredible movie … Expand

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4

BubbeDec 4, 2022

Not one of his best. I expected more. I realized it’s only semi-autobiographical but the whole thing didn’t ring true . I couldn’t get emotionally involved with th characters, they seemed to be two dimensional

8 of 9 users found this helpful81

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3

OlivierPielDec 29, 2022

Spielberg's linear, clichéd/trope-ridden, simplistic and ultimately self-congratulory self-biopic is not only flat but, worse, very manipulative. His voyeurism, at the expense of his friends and family, is disgusting and pretentious. I wonderSpielberg's linear, clichéd/trope-ridden, simplistic and ultimately self-congratulory self-biopic is not only flat but, worse, very manipulative. His voyeurism, at the expense of his friends and family, is disgusting and pretentious. I wonder what his parents would say.
Compare this with Tarkovsky's Mirror! it's 60 years old, but as poignant or poetic as it is still in advance of its times for the way memories are evoked on film. The way young Andrei's mom is included in the film is also simply beautiful. Unline Spielberg, he is not pretentious in reducing his mom to the clichéd persona of the neurotic failed artist, he transmits his love in a far more inquisitive way. On the other hand, what to expect of someone who turned the horror of the Holocaust into a dumb and simplistic spectacle in Schindler's list to sell to an uncultivated audience?
In a hundred years, dumb 'Meuricans will have forgotten Spielberg like those 1930 and 1950 makers of escapist movies, for but one film, Jaws. Tarkovsky and Antonioni will remain.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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10

xaviersanchez04Nov 11, 2022

Um dos melhores filmes de Steven Spielberg que já vi.
Espero que muitas pessoas vejam porque é um luxo audiovisual que não pode faltar.

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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0

RealestRealFeb 1, 2023

Remember when Shamalayan wrote himself into "Lady In the Water" as a genius writer who writes a book to save humanity? It was deemed a self-indulgent, pretentious cringefest and this film is no different. This film is extremely awkward toRemember when Shamalayan wrote himself into "Lady In the Water" as a genius writer who writes a book to save humanity? It was deemed a self-indulgent, pretentious cringefest and this film is no different. This film is extremely awkward to watch: the subtext being in every scene: "woe is me...I couldn't film this boo hoo". It's first world problems presented as a "difficult" childhood. Give me a break...such saccharine trash.Make a movie about Kubrick's life - now that's a director who broke conventions and worth a biopic.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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6

MarkHReviewsNov 27, 2022

Let’s be fair: If any filmmaker has earned the right to make an autobiography, it’s Steven Spielberg. Over the years, he’s given us films that were touchstones for two generations. So we owe him this self-indulgence.

What Spielberg andLet’s be fair: If any filmmaker has earned the right to make an autobiography, it’s Steven Spielberg. Over the years, he’s given us films that were touchstones for two generations. So we owe him this self-indulgence.

What Spielberg and Co-Writer Tony Kushner (“Angels in America”) have created is puzzling. From my perspective, the film is in three acts of widely varying lengths and equally diverse intentions. The first 75% of this film traces Spielberg’s development from his first movie experience, seeing DeMille’s “The Greatest Show on Earth,” through his adolescent movie-making. It’s ironic that the re-creation of Spielberg’s early movie-making is actually pretty dull, offering little insight into his cinematic sensibilities. During this time, the fissures in his parents’ relationship - and the ripple effects throughout the family – become apparent. When it’s not being depressing or sad, this section of the film is remote and emotionally distant, apparently because of Spielberg’s tortured attempt not to take one parent’s side in the conflict.

Act Two explores Spielberg’s move to Northern California and his experiences in a high school which was apparently heavily populated by very tall Aryan males. We discover that his first girlfriend is a devout Christian (her wall is a shrine dedicated equally to Jesus, Fabian and Bobby Rydell) who hopes to save his soul. She also has apparent difficulty conflating religious fervor and sexual arousal. This section of the film is just as impressionistic as Act One, but the colors are brighter and the tone is light, if not frivolous.

Act Three lasts only a few minutes. In torment, Spielberg’s character has decided to drop out of college to pursue his dream. Along the way, he’s given a five-minute audience with Director John Ford, who offers weighty utterances about cinematic technique through vast clouds of cigar smoke. This causes our protagonist to stride happily, optimistically into the sunset for no apparent reason.

Along the way, Spielberg and Kushner offer some alternative theories about Spielberg’s passion for filmmaking. For Spielberg, is filmmaking a way to control and make meaning of the chaos around him? Possibly. Could making movies be a buffer and an escape from family tension as his parents’ marriage disintegrates? Maybe. Could making films offer an antidote for personal loneliness? Could be. Was moviemaking simply a way for Spielberg to find his place in the confusing social landscape of childhood and adolescence? Kinda. Does he enjoy playing God, deciding the winners and losers in his narratives? Perhaps. The most frustrating element of this film is that Spielberg seems more perplexed about the events around him and his own motivations than he has ever been when filming his iconic characters. But then, maybe that’s the way it is with humans. When we’re the subject of the conversation, it always messier. At the end of the day, life is apparently just as confusing for Spielberg as it is for the rest of us.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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7

nnogohkoJan 6, 2023

The Fabelmans is one of my favorite movies of the year even though I don't think it is one of Steven Spielberg's best work. Spielberg obviously made this movie with care since it is about his childhood and that care I think really shows inThe Fabelmans is one of my favorite movies of the year even though I don't think it is one of Steven Spielberg's best work. Spielberg obviously made this movie with care since it is about his childhood and that care I think really shows in the final product. The performances are really strong especially Gabriel LaBelle and Paul Dano. The Mitzi dance scene is one of my favorite scenes this year. I think the coming age of story is pretty standard but I think there is always interesting going on with the characters so I didn't mind. I just wish it dove a little deeper to the darker side of his complex relationships with his parents since it gets kind of abandoned in the latter half of the movie. John William's final score for Spielberg is emotional and really wonderful. Overall, I really like the movie but I wish I could have seen the more darker sides to the certain events that happen in the film since almost everything is conveyed so optimistically.… Expand

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10

mstiversJan 24, 2023

I am never disappointed by Spielberg's craftsmanship, but sometimes his sentimentality gets in the way. Not this time, though. There is an emotional toughness and also a quirky humor in this movie that I have not seen in his work before. HeI am never disappointed by Spielberg's craftsmanship, but sometimes his sentimentality gets in the way. Not this time, though. There is an emotional toughness and also a quirky humor in this movie that I have not seen in his work before. He celebrates the allure of cinema, but doesn't shy away from the cost. Top work from the actors, especially the incandescent Michelle Williams. And one of the best final shots of all time. Probably there will be many Spielberg highlight reels that end with that shot.… Expand

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7

Compi24Feb 28, 2023

In a manner similar to Kenneth Branagh's "Belfast" of last year and Alfonso Cuarón's "Roma" a few years before that, "The Fabelmans" finds a filmmaker delving into their past in semi-autobiographical fashion, trying to make sense of theirIn a manner similar to Kenneth Branagh's "Belfast" of last year and Alfonso Cuarón's "Roma" a few years before that, "The Fabelmans" finds a filmmaker delving into their past in semi-autobiographical fashion, trying to make sense of their upbringing and what made them who they are. Here, it's Steven Spielberg in the director's chair and the director's whole soul is on display for the world to see. Reverent, earnest and cheeky, this film leans further away from the usual trappings of the Hollywood biopic, opting instead to tell a coming-of-age tale that's freer in form than expected. In any event, it's undeniably fascinating to see any filmmaker mulling over the elements of their own life and then applying artistic flair in turn. There's something even more surreal about that filmmaker being the literal person whose last name is most closely associated with the profession of filmmaking itself. Definitely a solid watch.… Expand

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8

HerickDienerJan 14, 2023

É notório o quanto Steven Spielberg se divertiu fazendo "The Fabelmans". Mesmo quando o filme caminha para o cômico, muitas vezes um nível acima, ainda conseguimos sentir um Steven sorridente por trás das câmeras. E eu quase sinto que devo umÉ notório o quanto Steven Spielberg se divertiu fazendo "The Fabelmans". Mesmo quando o filme caminha para o cômico, muitas vezes um nível acima, ainda conseguimos sentir um Steven sorridente por trás das câmeras. E eu quase sinto que devo um pedido de desculpas público para Michelle Williams. Quando vi pequenas cenas do filme, achei sua atuação caricata, e não entendia sua presença nas premiações. Mas, não há quem não se conecte com sua personagem em situações conflitantes de sentimentos, mérito absolutamente da atriz. "The Fabelmans" foi uma ótima experiência!… Expand

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10

HabibiehakimNov 25, 2022

50 years of a career Steven Spielberg's have and this one is basically a gift to us, a little simple gift, The Fabelmans is not Schindler's List, it's not Indiana Jones, E.T., Jurassic Park, The Terminal, Bridge Of Spies, West Side Story,50 years of a career Steven Spielberg's have and this one is basically a gift to us, a little simple gift, The Fabelmans is not Schindler's List, it's not Indiana Jones, E.T., Jurassic Park, The Terminal, Bridge Of Spies, West Side Story, Ready Player One, in terms of a theme named it all, it's the most true from the heart movie that Steven Spielberg's ever made, watching this movie as a still new and still learn moviegoers is definitely memorable, it's definitely an experience that i'll never forget because the movie is special, this isn't just a movie for me to critic but it also a movie that i take and feel personally, lot's of thing that are related to my real life experience too about movies or film, people who have the same dream as Spielberg's will really grateful and i just cannot see them bashing this simple little Masterpiece from the master himself who was never afraid to being a kid again, there is always be little Sammy Fabelmans in Spielberg's forever until he's gone, and he put it all in here, back to the movie itself the movie indeed is more into the drama rather than about the filmmaking itself, and my god i'm telling you, the drama is just phenomenal, it's beautiful, it's powerful, it's engaging, and it's simply one of the best drama story ever out there despite being loosely based on a true story, the performance is no doubt one of the best performances i've ever seen this year, Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, and specifically Gabriel LaBelle which like Henry Thomas and Drew Barrymore in E.T., Christian Bale in Empire Of The Sun, Dakota Fanning in War Of The Worlds, Ariana Richards and Joseph Mazzello in Jurassic Park got the best direction from the best child actor director ever out there, and so do the rest of the cast is perfect, 2 in a half hour drama that never bored me for a second, i can go on and on and on talking about all the pros in this movie, i can't even think about one negative things about The Fabelmans, i can't stop thinking about it, if the movie have more screening in my country i would love to see it again again and again, too bad they never understand which movie should be have more screening and this one is a must, it's perfect, Spielberg's just never disappoint, his passion to cinema, to older people, to younger people, he can make all things work, and The Fabelmans is special, so special that while and after i watch it i also feel special to be one of the few people to experience this Masterpiece in the theaters, to all moviegoers out there specifically you did not wanna miss this one, The Fabelmans is simply on my top 10 best films of the year, it is another amongst the best Spielberg's film, it's just a perfect love letter to us movie lover, and thank you Spielberg for this beautiful powerful and inspiring gift.… Expand

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8

Badgerryan27Jan 29, 2023

Spielberg’s new movie is another memorable one. The loosely bio pic of his life is incredibly shot, funny at times and very heartfelt. The movie has great acting and it does a very good job of showing the highs and lows of his youngSpielberg’s new movie is another memorable one. The loosely bio pic of his life is incredibly shot, funny at times and very heartfelt. The movie has great acting and it does a very good job of showing the highs and lows of his young childhood with his young movie making career. Deserves all the praise it’s receiving.… Expand

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8

CarlElmoreJan 16, 2023

This movie is basically one big therapy session for Steven Spielberg and I'm here for it.

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8

SFPMJan 17, 2023

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is great it based on Steven Spielbergs upbringing and what he went through to become a film maker. The cinematography in this movie is great and The camera angles for some of the shots are amazing. The best scene in this movie in my opinion is when the Bully Logan is asking Sam why he made him look great in the movie when it’s all a lie and that he feels like a failure then the other bully Chad runs towards Sam to punch him then Logan punches Chad in the face and Sam and Logan talk together for a little bit. Great movie 8/10… Expand

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5

tonysaidJan 23, 2023

This movie is exactly what you would expect. If that is what you are hoping for you may rate it higher. I would not watch this more than once.

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2

GwardvaarkJan 15, 2023

Slow, self indulgent, overdramatic, overlong. It looked great and there were some good performances.

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9

RppppJan 30, 2023

It was a beautiful portrait of Spielberg’s relationships with his mother and father. And resonated so strong with me in my relationships. The simplicity and expert execution together were really inspiring.

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10

ArtKNov 24, 2022

While it starts a bit slow, I loved this film (and the acting was top notch from everyone). As usual, Spielberg adds so many nuances - and an extraordinary amount of heart. The final shot was a stunner.

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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9

wl-humeNov 11, 2022

I remember my first childhood experience in the cinema with my brother going to see X-MEN. Coincidentally filming of that movie took place at Roy Thompson Hall where the screening of this movie was. In the film Sammy Fabelman, as Spielberg’sI remember my first childhood experience in the cinema with my brother going to see X-MEN. Coincidentally filming of that movie took place at Roy Thompson Hall where the screening of this movie was. In the film Sammy Fabelman, as Spielberg’s onscreen proxy, witnesses The Greatest Show on Earth. His first childhood cinematic experience. The Fablemans does not match the experience of seeing X-MEN or The Greatest Show on Earth for the first time, but its recreation of childhood may be enough to inspire others to go out and do the same. If you ever wish you could go back to when you were younger with all the knowledge you know now, Spielberg has the solution: make a movie.

It was my favourite film of 2022. This is a director who has made 33 films over 4 decades and his talent and experience show. It’s fun to spot the references to Spielberg’s other work during the film.

What I was most worried about going into the film was Spielberg’s writing. He’s not known for being a writer. His dialogue is plainspoken, tin-eared, and a little corny. Yet he’s smart enough not to try and make poetry. The dialogue is simple enough for an 8-year-old to understand. Even though Dad (Paul Dano, low key) explains in groan-inducing technical terms how movies work, reciting what sounds like the first page out of a film studies book. It still is earnest.

The script for the movie started with his sister Anne in the 90s. She is known for writing the Academy Award-nominated script for the Tom Hanks movie Big. Funny enough, in the movie she is portrayed onscreen in by Julia Butters. When she tells young Sammy he should make more movies starring girls. It’s definitely an acknowledgment of his limitations.

The female lead characters in Ready Player One (Art3mis) and West Side Story (Maria) demonstrate his growth in directing female characters. But his female lead here Mitzi is a step back.

Michelle Williams plays the mother Mitzi. Reaching for the emotional highs of her previous character in Blue Valentine, Williams dials it up. However, the screenplay doesn’t lend the necessary depth to support her character. So in her overacting, it feels closer to Venom: Let There Be Carnage. Her best moment comes when she brings her children out of the house towards a literal tornado. “Is it safe?” One of the daughters asks. “Of course it’s safe, I’m your mother!” A resonant moment that succeeds at making Mitzi interesting. But the film doesn’t counterbalance her zaniness, rendering her cartoonish.

A Best Actress Oscar campaign is underway to promote Williams. She isn’t a Lead, but it looks like Spielberg is trying to perfect his record. In the last decade, his films have collected Oscars in all other acting categories.

I wanted more of Sammy’s complicated relationship with his father Burt. The father-son dynamics of Spielberg’s films are often a highlight. It’s clear the director wanted to focus on the nourishing creativity Mitzi provided, but greater closure for the father character was needed. The rest of the family is supportive, so the father is the main opponent. However, thanks to the film’s focus on Sammy’s internal journey, the external relationships matter less.

The Fabelmans is able to make up for its shallowness in two ways; direction and acting. Because his parents are so distinct, Sammy’s conflicts remain clear. Gabriel LaBelle is perfect as Sammy. He’s given heavy material but doesn’t overdo it, landing several emotional beats with the right touch. A showdown with a high school bully nails Spielberg’s quiet and not-so-quiet confidence. The family ensemble gives the movie its heart. Particularly Seth Rogen in his final scene. It’s far from Rogen’s best work, but the audience did get a kick out of hearing his iconic laugh. Such touches remind you there’s real life put into these roles. It all adds up to Spielberg’s biggest emotional punch in decades.

Despite the heavy subject matter, there is a lightness to it, it is literally Spielberg. The brilliance is knowing he’ll land on his feet. Perfect for a coming-of-age film. Whenever Sammy contemplates quitting there’s fun in waiting to see what inspiration strikes for him to pick up the camera again. The movie doesn’t kid itself. The setbacks Sammy faces are temporary. As bad as things get, and they can get pretty bad during high school, there is still light at the end of the tunnel.… Expand

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7

dharmaDec 15, 2022

Only Spielberg can elevate such a mundane story, with some of the greatest actors / actresses there are and give this so called semi-autobiographical film a bit of oomph. Other than that, I am an affocionado of his works and I find that thisOnly Spielberg can elevate such a mundane story, with some of the greatest actors / actresses there are and give this so called semi-autobiographical film a bit of oomph. Other than that, I am an affocionado of his works and I find that this is his most self indulgent work yet. It is hard to make a biographical film when you are the one filming it. You do not get any angle on the main character; just a kid that wants to make motion pictures. However, the surrounding characters especially Williams is great as always.… Expand

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10

mhvpNov 11, 2022

Spielberg has done it again, giving us his most personal film yet in the form of a coming-of-age story based loosely on his adolescence. In it, we witness 16 year old Sammy Fabelman (played by a perfectly cast Gabriel LaBelle in a performanceSpielberg has done it again, giving us his most personal film yet in the form of a coming-of-age story based loosely on his adolescence. In it, we witness 16 year old Sammy Fabelman (played by a perfectly cast Gabriel LaBelle in a performance that will define his career) navigate his way through many challenges some of us may have faced in our lives, such as parental divorce, school bullying, among other things, in order to achieve his goal of becoming a filmmaker. This story, brought to life through a screenplay co-written by Spielberg and Tony Kushner, literally speaks to you and resonates with anyone of any age who aspires to be an artist in any field.

The rest of the performances are terrific, with Michelle Williams as Sammy's mother Mitzi being a major standout, same with Paul Dano as Sammy's father Burt, and Judd Hirsch, who gives a memorable monologue as Sammy's great uncle Boris. These 4 performances deserve tons of award nominations. The cinematography is beautiful, as we can all expect from the great Janusz Kaminski. John Williams' score, while a bit more subdued and minimalist this time due to it being mostly driven by piano, suits the film's uplifting tone, no matter what people think of it. Highly recommended and for sure to be a major Best Picture contender for this year's Oscars. Go see it on the biggest screen possible if you can.… Expand

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9

alejandro970Feb 2, 2023

Now Steven Spielberg is committed to introspection, without putting aside his distinctive style. How the family environment serves as a framework, and means of development for a filmmaker never ceases to be interesting. One of the best betsNow Steven Spielberg is committed to introspection, without putting aside his distinctive style. How the family environment serves as a framework, and means of development for a filmmaker never ceases to be interesting. One of the best bets of the year.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

TomMondayNov 15, 2022

People write things about movies. Someone else reads them. You might be one of those people. I might be one too. No one knows which one of us is correct.

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

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8

moviecritic68Dec 7, 2022

Would have to rate this film as one of the better ones I have viewed this year. It was shot professionally and was complimented with an interesting story.

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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10

saimariejohnsonFeb 25, 2023

I think this is probably one of Michelle Williams' best performances. The Fabelmans is a great film and has the amazing backdrop of cinematic talent and perseverance while in the midst of real issues and family dysfunction. The types ofI think this is probably one of Michelle Williams' best performances. The Fabelmans is a great film and has the amazing backdrop of cinematic talent and perseverance while in the midst of real issues and family dysfunction. The types of things that many artists deal with, and yet woven together with such finesse that it's not overly sad making it possible to deliver a plethora of remarkable performances conveying authentic and diverse emotional moments through the eyes of Sammy Fabelman.… Expand

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10

liamexeDec 14, 2022

I adore The Fabelmans' portrayal of humanity. And I adored how the movie depicted Sam's life as a whole, in a way that went beyond simply feeling like you were witnessing a story. I was able to fully comprehend and experience Sam's feelingsI adore The Fabelmans' portrayal of humanity. And I adored how the movie depicted Sam's life as a whole, in a way that went beyond simply feeling like you were witnessing a story. I was able to fully comprehend and experience Sam's feelings as one of the audience. The characters and their interactions are the heart of the plot. The Fabelmans are not a perfect family, but they are unique in their cohesion and sense of camaraderie. It's fascinating to witness Sam's connection with his mother, which Michelle Williams portrays so expertly. There is a level of complicity that is tested, creating magnificent friction. For an actor, Williams' scenes serve as study material.… Expand

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10

jeffw38Dec 6, 2022

Strong performances and story lines. This well-written, well acted 2 1/2 hour film is well worth your time …

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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1

RCardJan 16, 2023

Pretentious! The beginning promises (the discovery of cinema) but the drama of the mother and the high school movie ((there is no patience for a teenage movie full of cliches). Yesterday, I saw Bela Tarr's Satantango. Beautiful! There’s a lotPretentious! The beginning promises (the discovery of cinema) but the drama of the mother and the high school movie ((there is no patience for a teenage movie full of cliches). Yesterday, I saw Bela Tarr's Satantango. Beautiful! There’s a lot more to cinema than this thing.… Expand

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9

TVJerryNov 28, 2022

Steven Spielberg made this film to reflect some of the highlights from his formative years. This includes his discovery and subsequent love of cinema, as well as the powerful effect of his parents played in his life. Gabriel LaBelle isSteven Spielberg made this film to reflect some of the highlights from his formative years. This includes his discovery and subsequent love of cinema, as well as the powerful effect of his parents played in his life. Gabriel LaBelle is wonderful as the adolescent, while Michelle Williams and Paul Dano are equally remarkable as his parents. Obviously, this is a highly personal film and Spielberg's affection for the characters and their emotions is felt in every frame. Pair this with a clean, effective script by Tony Kushner. While 2:30 may seem long, there's not one moment where this film isn't completely captivating. Spielberg is one of the great masters of modern cinema and this tribute to his own life ranks as one of his most effective dramas and a beautiful example of heartfelt storytelling.… Expand

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8

bertobellamyJan 30, 2023

Just as in 'Roma,' 'The Hand of God,' and 'Armageddon Time,' 'The Fabelmans' blends memories with fiction to give insight into the state of mind of an artist, in this case, the legendary Steven Spielberg.

As the movies I mentioned earlier,Just as in 'Roma,' 'The Hand of God,' and 'Armageddon Time,' 'The Fabelmans' blends memories with fiction to give insight into the state of mind of an artist, in this case, the legendary Steven Spielberg.

As the movies I mentioned earlier, Spielberg's new one shows the fragile balance between art and family; what happens when parents or brothers get in the way of talent? Our director, of course, shows no regrets; the tale articulates the painful experience of letting your relatives know that you don't want to follow their path in some way or another, just as little Paul in James Gray's 'Armageddon Time.'

'The Fabelmans' is a simple coming-of-age story, but what elevates it is the honesty of the screenplay, the acting, and the way it focuses on the mother — played brilliantly by Michelle Williams. As an artist herself, her struggle shows the consequences of not finding yourself and being held down by your own family — in her case, her mother.

This is Steven Spielbergs most intimate movie in maybe decades, but it's not short of spectacle; the amateur filming sequences are outstanding. 'American Graffiti' and 'E.T.' come to mind when you're watching this; memories of a great time mixed with the urgency of the present. Oh, and the last scene is just memorable. Don't look for it before and let you be surprised by it.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

CalvinCrackNov 19, 2022

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Absolutely worth seeing, and very entertaining. I even wish it was an hour longer. BUT, somewhat lacking in the incident I’d hope for in a memoir. Parents divorcing is no joke and I can attest to that. But other than this, I found the story well told but uneventful. I’m very happy Spielberg got to make this movie though and I think it’s a nice part of his filmography for future cinephiles to contemplate.… Expand

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9

moviemitch96Nov 23, 2022

This film chronicles the story of a young boy as we follow his coming of age alongside his family, from the early 50s in Phoenix, Arizona when his parents (Michelle Williams and Paul Dano) take him to see his first film in the theaterThis film chronicles the story of a young boy as we follow his coming of age alongside his family, from the early 50s in Phoenix, Arizona when his parents (Michelle Williams and Paul Dano) take him to see his first film in the theater (thereby igniting his love and passion for filmmaking) to the mid 60s in California as he aspires to become a successful Hollywood filmmaker. Written, produced, and directed by Steven Spielberg, this is by far his most personal and autobiographical film to date, as he essentially showcases his own personal upbringing and everything that led up to his success and inception of his now legendary Hollywood career. Sharing with us all of the most tender and personal moments of his life such as, going to see 'The Greatest Show on Earth' as his first film in the theater, his parents' divorce, his struggles with growing up Jewish and suffering bullying and anti-Semitism, splitting his time between Phoenix and Hollywood, etc., Spielberg tells all here in his typical grandiose, nostalgic, and endearing fashion. Young actor Gabriel LaBelle as the high school-aged Sammy Fabelman (who is essentially Spielberg) captures the spirit and determination of the filmmaker wonderfully. Williams and Dano as his mother Mitzi and his father Burt respectively also deliver some of their best and most tender work here. Judd Hirsch even briefly appears in one memorable scene as his uncle, and Seth Rogen also plays his own goofy self here as the uncle-like figure to Sammy. Production-wise, we are graced with beautiful cinematography that really manages to capture the look and feel of the era quite nicely, and Spielberg's go-to composer John Williams also delivers a beautiful and uplifting score as he always does. There are times where it feels a little overly sentimental and sappy, but I for one have come to expect this for most Spielberg films at this point anyway, and it almost certainly didn't hinder my enjoyment. Overall, it's an absolute love letter to film fans all over, and a beautiful and true testament to the power of film and its ability to move, inspire, and simply make us feel something. It's films like this that reaffirm just why I love films so much and am the huge film buff that I am and always have been for as long as I can remember. They truly shape who I am, and this film is a beautiful, touching, and tender reminder of that. Hats off to you Mr. Spielberg!… Expand

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8

LisaLR1Jan 29, 2023

THE FABELMANS, a semi-autobiographical account of the film's director, Steven Spielberg's childhood years, co-written by Spielberg and Tony Kushner, stars Gabriel LaBelle as the young, budding filmmaker Sammy Fabelman. Sammy's hesitant, yetTHE FABELMANS, a semi-autobiographical account of the film's director, Steven Spielberg's childhood years, co-written by Spielberg and Tony Kushner, stars Gabriel LaBelle as the young, budding filmmaker Sammy Fabelman. Sammy's hesitant, yet supportive parents, Mitzi and Burt Fabelman are played by the luminous Michelle Williams and the convincing Paul Dano. Also in the film, Judd Hirsch making a short but memorable appearance in his recent Best Supporting Actor Oscar-nominated performance as Sammy's cantankerous Uncle Boris. Spielberg pays homage to the wonders and realities of youth, dreams and love of cinema seen through the eyes of Sammy whose early life witnesses his mother's unrealized musical aspirations, his father's multiple job changes resulting in the Fabelmans various moves from state-to-state, and the ultimate breakup of his family following his parents divorce. All this going on while Sammy realizes and begins to nurture his own artistic talents for filmmaking. A highlight of the movie is an almost unrecognizable David Lynch who appears at the climax of the film as Iconic director John Ford who talks to Sammy about the importance of horizon in good filmmaking. Steven Spielberg is one of the great directors who is blessed with a true gift for storytelling and he accomplishes this, again with THE FABELMANS. You may recognize his abiding love for Indiana Jones in this film through the character of a handsome, tough on the outside, flawed on the inside high school track star, caught on camera on Ditch Day by 18 year old Sammy Fabelman. It's obvious Steven Spielberg never forgot him.… Expand

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8

JLuis_001Nov 30, 2022

I didn't find it a moving film per se, perhaps because my emotions about what I was seeing on screen had little to do with the emotions Spielberg was reflecting in this story, but I still think it's a very good film.

I suppose Spielberg wasI didn't find it a moving film per se, perhaps because my emotions about what I was seeing on screen had little to do with the emotions Spielberg was reflecting in this story, but I still think it's a very good film.

I suppose Spielberg was more focused on the idea of romanticizing the themes that were being explored, which have a lot to do with talent and the conflicts that arise between the artistic impulse and personal responsibilities.

Spielberg writes a love letter to himself, understanding that he just needed to create a certain path without being burdened by the foolishness of many autobiographies of wanting to pile up any number of events to believe that they can compress a whole life into a few hours.

To my mind, the idea of The Fabelmans is not to make you believe that it all happened or that it happened just as you see it on the screen, but rather it is a story about discovering who you are and what it takes to accept that to commit to following that path in the pursuit of your happiness, even in the face of all the bumps you're going to encounter along the way.

The depth of its plot and its strengths lie not in the need for it to be resolved, but for you to savor the details.
And that's why, though I only tend to do so with very few films, The Fabelmans needs further viewings.

At this point I can say that Spielberg is going to bag his third Oscar as a director.… Expand

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9

SoulWarfareDec 25, 2022

The Fabelmans is a semi-autobiographical based on Steven Spielberg. Funny enough it is also directed by Steven Spielberg. I haven't ever seen a biopic story that is also directed by the person the story is about. That interested me a lot butThe Fabelmans is a semi-autobiographical based on Steven Spielberg. Funny enough it is also directed by Steven Spielberg. I haven't ever seen a biopic story that is also directed by the person the story is about. That interested me a lot but knowing it was about the legendary director Steven Spielberg is what made me want to watch it. Is the movie an overly self-indulgent semi-biopic, or does Steven continue to show why he is such a great director?

The film is such an interesting piece as the characters themselves are fictional but based on real people. For example, the character that is meant to represent Spielberg is named Samuel "Sammy" Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle). What I appreciate is that Steven doesn't shy away from the flaws of the character representing him. Sammy is very passionate about filmmaking but he loves it so much that he puts it above his own family. His conflict is trying to pursue his passion while his family is tearing apart. On that note, there is a complex family dynamic with the clash of the logical but stern yet loving Dad (Paul Dano) and the artistic but selfish yet encouraging Mother (Michelle Williams). Sammy inherits both qualities from his parents but also some of their worse. Seeing the struggle of chasing a dream and their isolation is such an engaging theme. None of the characters is terrible people. They do wrong things but there is a lot more nuance to them. The story is incredibly warm, funny, gut-wrenching and powerful.

The performance here is terrific and worthy of an Oscar. Michelle Williams gives an unforgettable performance as the mother, Mitzi. She shows how caring yet weird of a mother she is but shows how she is gradually getting more and more broken as the movie progresses. She could have easily made her character incredibly hatable but her performance succeeds in making the audience sympathize with her despite her being the main cause of the rift in the family. Paul Dano is also terrific as the dad, Burt. His performance is less eccentric and more subtle but he perfectly conveys the internal struggle of the character. Gabriel LaBelle plays Sammy and he is great. His character is sort of arrogant and Gabriel manages to convey that without being overly pompous and annoying. LaBelle is terrific at communicating a young kid whose emotions are on the verge of exploding. He is a very promising young actor. In terms of supporting actors, Judd Hirsch appears for only two scenes yet he gives such a strong performance that takes over the scene. David Lynch also appears in just one scene but his scene might be the most memorable moment in the film.

The music is composed by legendary composer John Williams and he continues to do a great job. Although, the score here isn't his most memorable. The cinematography is done by Janusz Kaminski of Schindler's List fame and he continues to be great here. There are tons of great and memorable shots that capture the essence of filmmaking in The Fabelmans. There is an amazing shot that has Sammy using his hands as a screen with a projector aimed at his palm which is stunning. If I had any issue with the film then it has to be the 2nd act with Sammy in high school. Scenes concerning Sammy's romance and his bullying are a little uninteresting compared to everything else. It doesn't help that his girlfriend feels very over the top and the bullies act like all the generic jocks you have seen over a dozen times. Fortunately, the high school stuff have a strong landing.

Steven continues to show that he is still one of the best directors out there. Despite the film being a semi-biographic on him, he doesn't shy away from the flaws of him and his parents. He shows the struggle of chasing your passion which might resonate with a lot of people. If Spielberg decided this was his last film then this would've been a great final outing. However, from this film alone, I know he loves making films and he won't stop here. I can't wait to see his next work.… Expand

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7

Stream2BigScreeNov 30, 2022

Happy Holidays, Streamers! It's that time of year when the movie landscape is crowded with holiday family movies and "prestige" pics. Those "prestige" pics are the ones attempting to garner enough attention to be considered for the AcademyHappy Holidays, Streamers! It's that time of year when the movie landscape is crowded with holiday family movies and "prestige" pics. Those "prestige" pics are the ones attempting to garner enough attention to be considered for the Academy Awards. While The Fabelmans is a family drama, it definitely falls more into the "prestige" pic category. It's got everything: Michelle Williams actress-ing; Spielberg Spielberg-ing; coming-of-age tropes including a kid fascinated with a life making art. Oh! And a monkey, I can't forget the monkey. Here's how it went for me.

The Fabelmans was directed by Steven Spielberg and co-written by Spielberg and Tony Kushner. There's a lot of prestigious people in mentioned in that sentence. Anyway, that talent sets the bar pretty high for this movie. The Fabelmans tells a semi-autobiographical story of Sammy Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle), a young, Jewish burgeoning film director and his family that happens to be coming apart at the seams. Sammy is introduced to the wonder of movies early and his parents unwittingly cultivate his obsession with motion pictures. Sammy's mother, Mitzi Fabelman (Michelle Williams), is a flighty, loving and passionate mother who sees herself as an artist and encourages Sammy's filmmaking efforts. Burt Fabelman (Paul Dano) is methodical and reasonable and sees Sammy's filmmaking as just a silly hobby. Sammy and his movies capture the highs and lows of his family through the 1950s and 1960s and give the audience insight into the foundation behind the film's director. Spielbergian hijinks ensue.

That wasn't a great synopsis, but you get it. It's a coming-of-age story about a boy who wants to become a movie director and how that affects his family. It takes 2 and a half hours to tell this story? These coming-of-age stories can be a dime a dozen, but this one has the added layer of being told by and about the fictionalized family of one of the greatest living American directors. If you are into the Spielberg thing, then The Fabelmans should be catnip for you. If you don't really care about Steven Spielberg, then it may not be that interesting without that hook.

Nevertheless, there are great moments throughout The Fabelmans. There are really interesting scenes of teenage Sammy filming and editing his low budget movies. He has some striking ingenuity in directing and adding effects to the early films. The movie tells a compelling story about the difference between capturing truth on film versus living it. There's a strong moral lesson to be learned from Sammy's singlemindedness in pursuing his art at all costs. Gabriel LaBelle does an excellent job of anchoring this movie as the main character. As for the parents, Paul Dano is very good as the mild-tempered and evenhanded Burt. Everything he does makes sense even when his family may be falling apart around him. On the other hand, Michelle Williams is all over the place, manic and grating. That may be the character that Spielberg has created, but it's also the over-the-top, scenery-chewing performance that Michelle Williams is giving.

Ultimately, The Fabelmans is a good coming-of-age movie that hits some basic beats. It is elevated for those who are interested in the Steven Spielberg origin story. There are interesting parts about how the young man becomes a filmmaker, but if you don't care about that, then it's just another coming-of-age story to throw on the overflowing pile of them. For Spielberg fans, I say you'll be happy with a big box of popcorn if you venture to the theater. For everyone else, grab a bowl of popcorn for a matinee if you can't wait for it to show up on VOD or your favorite streaming channel.… Expand

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8

iCampoRamilFeb 22, 2023

Una película sobre el amor al cine que consigue que te enamores. No empatizas, y puede que se haga rara e incluso larga, pero engancha a la pantalla y entretiene hasta el último minuto.

· Cosas buenas: el cariño que desprende, hay amor enUna película sobre el amor al cine que consigue que te enamores. No empatizas, y puede que se haga rara e incluso larga, pero engancha a la pantalla y entretiene hasta el último minuto.

· Cosas buenas: el cariño que desprende, hay amor en cada escena y se nota. Muy muy bonita, tanto los planos como la fotografía están escogidos y hechos a la perfección. Tiene alguna píldora y momentos buenísimos. Y lo que no sabía yo, que es semiautobiográfica, Spielberg nos narra su vida y los puntos críticos que le hicieron crecer ese amor por el cine, ahora, sabiendo eso, me mola mucho más que antes.
· Cosas malas: si no tienes el contexto, no mola tanto, yo salí del cine, habiéndome gustado, sí, pero queriendo leer sobre la película, porque no me dejó las ideas muy claras. Hay algunos personajes que son demasiado cargantes.
· Conclusión: es rara, no te voy a mentir. No es Babylon, que es una fumada, pero esta son cosas normales, contadas de una forma extraña. Te puede gustar, pero si no estás habituado a este estilo, puede que no te encante.… Expand

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7

davemelbourne58Nov 27, 2022

Some great scenes for what I'm sure was Spielberg's passion project about his love of movies, and dealing with the fallout of his parents divorce. I would have loved this movie more if it had been trimmed down

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7

WatchinMoviesDec 22, 2022

It is a Spielberg movie, which ensures the movie has high production values, a story, and an ending we can all accept. The acting was pretty good and the semi-autobiographical nature of the material (maybe more than semi) was interesting. OurIt is a Spielberg movie, which ensures the movie has high production values, a story, and an ending we can all accept. The acting was pretty good and the semi-autobiographical nature of the material (maybe more than semi) was interesting. Our recommendation is: "watch it - it's pretty good".… Expand

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8

MetacriticOnurJan 1, 2023

excellent
[ ek-suh-luhnt ]

adjective
possessing outstanding quality or superior merit; remarkably good.

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9

alanpotter17Jan 13, 2023

Spielberg aparece em vídeo, antes de iniciar o filme, para agradecer às pessoas por estarem assistindo o seu filme mais pessoal, e só aí você sente o tom diferente da obra.
Focado pelo olhar de um garoto que sonha em ser cineasta, SpielbergSpielberg aparece em vídeo, antes de iniciar o filme, para agradecer às pessoas por estarem assistindo o seu filme mais pessoal, e só aí você sente o tom diferente da obra.
Focado pelo olhar de um garoto que sonha em ser cineasta, Spielberg de fato cria seu filme mais íntimo, embora seja um filme universal pela busca de um sonho. Ver o processo de criação do garoto desde quando ele se encantou com o cinema (a cena de um trem se chocando com um carro estacionado numa trilha) é de uma beleza ímpar, rende momentos de pura contemplação e fascínio.
Aos poucos o garoto cresce, torna-se um rapaz, e o cotidiano da família vai se revelando em pequenas camadas, das mais felizes às mais sombrias. Ele não deixa de relatar o bullying sofrido na escola por ser judeu, seu primeiro relacionamento, suas emoções. O garoto até tenta, por alguns minutos do filme, livrar-se do seu "hobby" de filmar a vida, mas o talento e a paixão que o movem sempre falam mais alto.
Ganhador do globo de ouro de melhor filme e direção, de fato quando a família Fabelmans se vê com segredos relacionados à adultério é que o filme engrandece, e tudo isso sendo registrado pela câmera amadora do rapaz.
A busca pelo sonho e pelo futuro profissional não deixa de ser amarga e crua, amassada pela vida cotidiana. Ver-se na tela não é apenas uma projeção, faz-nos também refletir e nos encadeia sentimentos, é capaz de transformar vidas, ou seja, o cinema atua como via de mão dupla: é feito por pessoas, mas também transforma a vida delas.
O final do filme é brilhante, falando sobre perspectivas. Afinal de contas, não deixa de ser um retrato amorfo da vida, se pararmos para pensar, o cinema é pura e simplesmente diegético. Ou não.… Expand

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10

dcmarloweDec 3, 2022

A wonderful take on Steven Spielberg's early life. The casting, dialogue, photography, and story lines are gripping, and will stay with you for days. I'm surprised that any paid movie reviewer, gave this movie anything less than a 90

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10

vogueblakersNov 29, 2022

fr this is probably the movie of the year, plsss go watch this in cinema!!!

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7

Voodoo123Mar 12, 2023

+Fantastic production quality
+Decent performances from the talented cast
+Good pacing/editing/soundtrack -Plot points hit on the nose with little subtlety -Relationships of the characters often feel two dimensional This was a fun watch+Fantastic production quality
+Decent performances from the talented cast
+Good pacing/editing/soundtrack
-Plot points hit on the nose with little subtlety
-Relationships of the characters often feel two dimensional

This was a fun watch especially fascinating when you consider it as a semi autobiographical take on Spielberg's own upbringing. It's a beautiful movie to watch as his style of filmmaking has changed very little over the last 30 years or so. Sadly there was little challenge to be found in the screenplay and many of the emotional gate points for me fell sort of flat and felt a bit forced. If you're a fan of Spielberg though this is a must watch!… Expand