72
Metascore
10 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 88Philadelphia InquirerSteven ReaPhiladelphia InquirerSteven ReaA heart-grabbing, awe-inspiring work that needs no embellishment.
- We witness many of Stephenson's inspirational moments during class, but miles more exist behind her students' skills and execution.
- 75New York PostV.A. MusettoNew York PostV.A. MusettoThat rare commodity: a film with only good things to say about public schools.
- 75San Francisco ChronicleSan Francisco ChronicleSucceeds by placing us in an interesting world with characters who are impossible not to root for.
- 75Boston GlobeWesley MorrisBoston GlobeWesley MorrisThe movie's sense of inspiration is realistic. It never implies a future of glamour, only hard-won success.
- 70Village VoiceVillage VoiceThe intersection of food and identity is briefly explored, and the prep/exam sequences have a tension and charm that keeps the film moving toward its literally rewarding climax.
- 70The New York TimesStephen HoldenThe New York TimesStephen HoldenPressure Cooker belongs to the honorable if overpopulated genre of inspirational films (both documentaries and features) dedicated to the proposition that one committed, passionate teacher can make all the difference in the lives of disadvantaged students.
- Stephenson's a true original, worthy of her own reality TV show. As Pressure Cooker proves: Anything is possible.
- 70Washington PostWashington PostPressure Cooker may not get the royal, Conde Nast-magazine hype accorded that upcoming Julia Child movie (starring, who else, Meryl Streep), but it merits a place of honor at the table.
- 60The Hollywood ReporterThe Hollywood ReporterThe culinary setting gives this familiar formula an appetizing twist.