This is a deeply strange film, but one whose rhythms and hues I deeply enjoy. It’s also probably the most beautiful Jackson has ever looked on screen, thanks to Amelia Vincent’s sumptuous cinematography.

| Nov 2, 2024

Nearly unwatchable ... but maybe next time.

| Feb 5, 2018

Complex and violent movie -- not for kids.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 28, 2010

A sophomore jinx for Lemmons, an overstuffed drama that fails to satisfy as a murder mystery or as a spiritual redemption saga of a homeless man, disappointingly played by Samuel Jackson (who was misdirected).

| Original Score: 1/4 | May 31, 2006

| Original Score: 1/5 | Dec 6, 2005

Remember David Helfgott, the concert pianist who goes mad in Shine? Imagine him in dreadlocks and as the star of a detective thriller, and you have a better understanding of The Caveman's Valentine than the people who made it.

Full Review | Original Score: 2/4 | Jun 11, 2003

Full Review | Original Score: 2.5/4 | May 20, 2003

Really not much more than an urban Scooby Doo episode, only Shaggy is black and with far more facial hair.

| Original Score: 1/5 | Dec 8, 2002

Jackson struggles mightily with a thankless role which has him doing and saying way too many absurd things.

| Oct 21, 2002

Lemmons creates mesmerizing passages, but she can't bring this one to a fulfilling crescendo.

Full Review | Original Score: C+ | Aug 9, 2002

Samuel L. Jackson is awesome...this movie isn't.

Full Review | Jul 9, 2002

A few great and original developments.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Mar 31, 2002

This is a commercial film with limited ambitions.

| Original Score: 2/4 | Mar 22, 2002

It's unfortunate that all this talent is misplaced on what is, essentially, a contrived mystery.

| Original Score: 2.5/4 | Feb 26, 2002

The Caveman's Valentine is a stylistically bold and bracingly ingenious thriller that grabs your attention, quickens your pulse -- and, when you least expect it, touches your heart.

| Oct 30, 2001

Though not as brilliant as Eve's Bayou, The Caveman's Valentine represents an admirable sophomore effort, and a terrific showcase for Samuel L. Jackson.

| Original Score: B+ | Oct 24, 2001

...not enough sustained mystery or suspense for a good crime thriller and not enough unique insights or perceptions for a good character study.

Full Review | Original Score: 6/10 | Jul 16, 2001

It's a less-than- compelling drama and a much-less- than-compelling murder mystery, and it squanders a first-rate cast.

| Original Score: 2/4 | Apr 27, 2001

The film rests squarely on the capable shoulder of Samuel L. Jackson.

| Original Score: 3.5/5 | Apr 2, 2001

A compelling, individual drama unlike any you're ever likely to see.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Apr 2, 2001