[Hayakawa] has the power, above anyone I know, to project those stories upon the screen amid the most ideally suitable and beautiful settings... he does this by some magic means which enhances the spectator's feeling for the drama.

| May 18, 2021

It is a screen telling of a tale that is full of heart interest and pathos, with a twist at the end that relives the heavy tragedy that has hung over the story for about two reels.

| May 18, 2021

A simple story of great beauty and appeal, The Dragon Painter is distinguished by... striking photographic studies and gorgeous settings.

| May 18, 2021

At just under an hour, The Dragon Painter is too spare and short to be much more than a quaint fable. Still, Hayakawa is never less than magnetic, whether he's sketching by a waterfall or mingling awkwardly in society circles.

| May 18, 2021

The film is compelling for its mythic underpinnings and Hayakawa's sensitive performance.

| May 18, 2021

It is art in acting; art in photography; art in direction; art in subtitle. It is as exquisite and complete a thing as I have ever seen on the screen.

| Dec 12, 2020

Despite its contradictory ending, however, The Dragon Painter is impressive, and Hayakawa's interpretation of the leading role is clear and convincing.

| Dec 27, 2019

[Hayakawa gives] a wonderful performance that's part comic, part plain odd... The film is a kind of visually sophisticated fairy tale, with tinting (best is the moonlit blue of the night scenes) and neatly composed interiors and silhouettes.

| Dec 27, 2019