Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer (15)

Drama, Thriller

Norman Oppenheimer is a small time operator who befriends a young politician at a low point in his life. Three years later, when the politician becomes an influential world leader, Norman's life dramatically changes for better and worse.

The critical consensus

Ultimately, the film is best viewed as a character study, with Gere's finely honed work ensuring that Norman remains a character worth studying.

(*) (*) Matthew Turner, The List, 05/06/2017

Writer-director Joseph Cedar’s latest feature is subtle, surprising and does a fine job of combining pathos, gentle, character-based comedy and political satire.

(*) Geoffrey Macnab, The Independent, 07/06/2017

This comedy-drama stretches credibility but remains very engaging thanks to a melancholy, deeply sympathetic performance from Gere and a strong supporting cast that includes Michael Sheen, Dan Stevens and Steve Buscemi.

Allan Hunter, Daily Express, 09/06/2017

The actor’s skilful performance as a desperate ‘fixer’ is slightly undermined by the film’s jaunty tone.

(*) (*) Wendy Ide, The Observer, 11/06/2017