Teddy Bear 2012

Manohla Dargis, New York Times: A largely likable tale about a 38-year-old man-child trying finally to grow up. Read more

Noel Murray, AV Club: Matthiesen and his cast have created a believable space, and that ultimately helps give Teddy Bear the tension of a fine suspense film once Kold sits down across the kitchen table from Steentoft to speak his mind at last. Read more

Stanley Kauffmann, The New Republic: The sex and filial troubles of 308-pound persons are not exactly common. But Matthiesen has evoked both the pathos and courage in these troubles, and, with the help of this reticent giant, explores them enticingly. Read more

Ella Taylor, NPR: A sweetly muted domestic drama struggling to contain a fierce and ancient folk tale. Read more

Elizabeth Weitzman, New York Daily News: A heart-wrenching central performance anchors Mads Matthiesen's intimate, empathetic drama about a Danish bodybuilder who aims to grow up as he nears middle age. Read more

Farran Smith Nehme, New York Post: This wispy story is distinguished by its sweetness of spirit, and it comes straight from Kold. Read more

David Fear, Time Out: It's only a slight exaggeration to say Kold gives what may be the performance of the year -- one that not only offsets the movie's momentary dips into self-conscious quirkiness but adds a genuine sweetness to the proceedings. Read more

Dennis Harvey, Variety: The low-key drama is well-crafted and likable as far as it goes, but there's not enough narrative impetus or depth to maintain more than passing viewer interest. Read more

Nick Pinkerton, Village Voice: A good tale, simply told. Read more