Why Reminiscence’s Reviews Are So Negative

Hugh Jackman-led flick Reminiscence has opened to a slew of negative reviews. The movie currently holds an unenviable 39% on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a generally unfavorable critical response. Given the initial hype around Reminiscence the project and strong cast including Mission: Impossible‘s Rebecca Ferguson, Thandiwe Newton and, of course, Jackman himself, this reaction might strike some as a surprise. However, a look below the surface reveals that there are actually some serious problems with the project.

The film itself centers around “investigator of the mind” Nick Bannister, who specializes in helping clients recover memories buried deep in their subconscious. Bannister’s world is turned upside down when he meets the mysterious Mae, leading him into a criminal conspiracy of intrigue and violence. Written by the co-creator of the hit show Westworld and produced by Jonathan Nolan, the film has, on the surface, all the ingredients to be a runaway hit. Unfortunately, the end result has several issues.

One of the major problems many critics have with Reminiscence is the derivative nature of its plot. The emphasis on the subconscious is comparable to forerunners such as Inception, which was directed and written by Jonathan Nolan’s brother Christopher. The futuristic, watery setting also recalls the likes of Blade Runner – only wetter and less interesting. Despite the strong visuals and brooding tone, the movie never quite manages to establish itself beyond its illustrious influences. As a result, many viewers have suggested that the film just reminds them of other, better movies, rather than creating something genuinely new and memorable. Here’s a sample of what some of the negative reviews are saying:

ReelViews:

“Although Reminiscence is made with care and competence and features a strong underlying premise, the film as a whole is forgettable.”

Slant Magazine:

“Reminiscence’s noir adornments inadvertently feel closer to parody than loving homage.”

Globe and Mail:

“For a film about memories, Reminiscence is ultimately truly forgettable.”

New York Post:

“A burdensome slog. This wannabe works oh so hard to be a contemporary detective noir, with its shadows, damsel in distress and brooding narration. But it never finds the suspense or sensuality of that genre.”

This is not to say that the movie is without its merits. Several prominent critics have praised the on-screen chemistry between Jackman and Ferguson, as well as the strong sense of visual style created by director and screenwriter Lisa Joy. Some of the more positive responses to the film are as follows:

Showbiz Junkies: 

“Hugh Jackman and Rebecca Ferguson sizzle, and the film’s at its best when it focuses on their relationship.”

Cinema Blend:

“Action, romance, and corruption mix together in a blend that allows Reminiscence to wow as an original movie that indulges in the comforts of a very familiar sort of story.”

Sadly, however, for most viewers, these plus points aren’t enough to salvage the film from forgettable mediocrity. In addition to the failure to break new ground, the blend of various tones and genres has left some critics confused as to the film’s intentions. Although the movie builds a strong noir aesthetic throughout the opening act, it later distends into a mix of crime drama, romance and time-travel science-thriller, without ever making up its mind over which genre it wants to fully commit to. As a result, Reminiscence juggles with some interesting ideas, without ever realizing its full dramatic potential.

About The Author

Thomas Lethbridge
(133 Articles Published)

After an eclectic career incorporating scuba diving, cheffing and teaching, Tommy eventually found his calling as a writer. With an early focus on food, he now specialises in all aspects of entertainment. Despite being a Lord of the Rings and Alien obsessive, his real passion is for truly terrible movies. He loves anything with a 0% Rotten Tomatoes rating and rarely passes up an opportunity to watch The Room. Tommy is based in London and joined the Screen Rant team in 2021.

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