There is such a thing as under-acting to a point where you exude the charisma of a plant pot. The directing goes the same way, plodding along conscientiously but without any spark -- one can sense the cameras splintering out of sheer boredom.

| Jan 2, 2018

Devastating story of abuse based on real life.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Dec 21, 2010

| Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 30, 2006

Washington makes his directorial debut with Antwone Fisher, a fact-based biography that deftly pulls the heartstrings. Granted, it covers no new ground that other psychiatrist/patient films haven't gone before.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Jun 19, 2003

| Original Score: 3/4 | May 28, 2003

A mind-numbing, soul-deadeningly dull experience, it is a miracle of mediocrity, a small wonder: how can anything be quite this tedious?

| Original Score: 1/5 | Mar 4, 2003

When the tears start coming, they're not jerked from you -- they're honestly earned, and they're a both a relief and, yes, an affirmation.

| Original Score: 4/4 | Mar 4, 2003

A fine film that proves the past is never too bleak -- or the future too hopeless -- to discover a productive new life, and a home and family to share it.

Full Review | Jan 16, 2003

In his debut as a film director, Denzel Washington delivers a lean and engaging work.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Jan 12, 2003

This is the sort of noble, well-produced tearjerker that's bound to work for some people, but one that lacks any real force, conviction or even a single surprise.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Jan 6, 2003

A riveting story well told.

Full Review | Dec 27, 2002

Denzel Washington gives a sensitive yet powerful performance as a Navy psychiatrist, and newcomer Derek Luke is a pleasant surprise as the title character.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 27, 2002

For sure, Antwone Fisher is corny. But it's corny in a way that a Hollywood movie about a boy who just wants to go home ought to be corny.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Dec 26, 2002

There's a simplicity and heart to Antwone Fisher ... that's extremely appealing.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Dec 25, 2002

Watchful, flinty, unexpectedly vulnerable -- and so cathartic it could wring tears from a stone.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4 | Dec 25, 2002

In his debut as a director, Washington has a sure hand. His work with actors is particularly impressive.

Full Review | Original Score: A- | Dec 24, 2002

Luke is one actor who is sure to be with us in a big way for years to come.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/4 | Dec 24, 2002

While the film is rated PG-13 for language and the brawling, this is one film that high school teachers can use as a teaching tool without any rationalization.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Dec 24, 2002

Luke's performance as Antwone is strong and stirring enough to rekindle that vintage phrase 'a star is born.'

| Original Score: B+ | Dec 24, 2002

An assured directorial debut that goes straight for the tear ducts.

| Dec 23, 2002