Chiwetel Ejiofor Praised for Perf in Redbelt

The film itself is certainly no critics’ darling at the moment. On the other hand, Chiwetel Ejiofor is getting high praise indeed. Called “excellent” by Manohla Dargis, and “soulful” by Lisa Schwarzbaum.

Carina Chocano writes:

Ejiofor brings a calm magnetism and a beatific serenity to his roles that have the effect of knocking you flat — there’s something about this guy that’s messianic.

And Pete Travers, who gives the film three out of four stars and says David Mamet is “on his game,” writes:

Ejiofor confirms his status as one of the best actors anywhere. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Ejiofor can do film drama (Dirty Pretty Things) and comedy (Kinky Boots) and win raves onstage (as Othello). The resonant stillness he brings to Redbelt pulls you in.

This is merely to record these blurbs – no chance this performance will hold by year’s end.