What Maisie Knew

What Maisie Knew is a poignant drama that explores the emotional turmoil experienced by a young girl caught in the middle of her parents' bitter, acrimonious divorce. As custody battles unfold, Maisie navigates a confusing world of adults who are more focused on their grievances than her well-being. The film delves into themes of family, childhood innocence, and resilience, highlighting Maisie's journey toward finding stability amidst chaos. With powerful performances, especially from Julianne Moore and the young actress playing Maisie, the story is told through the child's perspective, capturing the impact adult conflicts have on innocent lives.

Critics widely praised What Maisie Knew for its sensitive portrayal of a child's experience during a family breakdown. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 86% approval rating, with critics commending its emotional depth and nuanced storytelling. The consensus notes the film offers a compelling, mature look at divorce's impact on children. Metacritic rates it at 74/100, reflecting generally favorable reviews. Many reviewers highlighted Julianne Moore's compelling performance as a beacon of stability amid the chaos. The film's intimate direction and strong supporting cast also received accolades. Critics from The Guardian noted the film "beautifully captures the confusion and resilience of a child in crisis," while The New York Times praised it for being "emotionally honest without becoming maudlin." Some reviews pointed out that the pacing may feel slow for some, but the overall reception was positive, emphasizing the film's heartfelt approach and careful avoidance of melodrama. IMDb users rated it 7.4/10, indicating a generally strong audience appreciation.