Critics Have Seen Ella McCay, And They Think The Political Drama ‘Should Come With A Sugar-Content Warning’

by

James L. Brooks is known for creating beloved shows like The Simpsons and directing acclaimed films such as As Good as It Gets and Terms of Endearment, for which he won an Oscar. However, his newest movie, Ella McCay, isn’t receiving positive reviews. Early critics are calling the political dramedy, set to release on December 12, 2025, “borderline abysmal” and a difficult watch.

The film Ella McCay, set in 2008, features Emma Mackey (known from Sex Education) as the unexpectedly appointed governor. The story follows her as she deals with the difficulties of the job, including a possible scandal and an accidental encounter with her brother’s marijuana edibles. Critic Nick Schager of The Daily Beast compares it unfavorably to other work by the director, calling it “as bad as it gets” and suggesting that its witlessness is more memorable than the film’s overall lack of appeal and overly sentimental idealism.

This sequel is remarkably poor, feeling like a pale imitation of the director’s usual work rather than a genuine continuation. Emma Mackey’s performance highlights the film’s artificiality, making it the director’s biggest disappointment and a major letdown during the holiday season.

In a review for the New York Post, Johnny Oleksinski jokingly lamented the lack of creativity in the new film, giving it a rating of just one out of four stars. He described it as overly sentimental and never-ending, and expressed disappointment that a director with so much potential could create something so shallow and uninspired.

I was really hoping Brooks, whose work I love, would create a smart, classic comedy with well-developed characters. Unfortunately, this movie is a mess – it feels both short and endlessly long. The characters are shallow and unbelievable, and even Homer Simpson seems complex compared to the silly characters in this film.

David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter admits it’s difficult to criticize the work of a legendary figure like James L. Brooks. He suggests that the film Ella McCay might be best forgotten, so it doesn’t damage Brooks’ overall reputation. Rooney then shares his detailed review:

I read that the filmmakers were aiming for that classic 1950s screwball comedy vibe, with some serious moments thrown in, but honestly, it just doesn’t land. If the movie feels this flat, it’s best not to talk about having a grand artistic vision. It feels more like a cheesy ’80s sitcom than anything else, and the whole thing is slathered in sentimentality. Plus, Hans Zimmer’s score is so sweet, it almost gives you a cavity!

In a review for Exclaim!, Courtney Small describes Ella McCay as overly reliant on nostalgic themes, bringing up many issues without truly delving into them. Small criticizes the film for stating the value of open and honest communication without offering any meaningful insights, calling it ultimately empty despite its message.

The world of Ella McCay feels strangely detached from real-life consequences. Despite various scandals – from cheating to blackmail – the characters don’t seem to suffer lasting damage. Surprisingly, Ella’s popularity even increases after her affair is publicized, earning her a playful nickname. This lighthearted approach would be less noticeable if the film focused on a single storyline with a bit more substance.

However, some reviewers are appreciating the film’s appeal. Pete Hammond from Deadline is optimistic that audiences will enjoy this simple, yet refreshing comedy. He notes the director has again crafted a complex and compelling female character, and believes Emma Mackey delivers a star-making performance. Hammond adds:

Brooks masterfully blends the playful energy of classic screwball comedies with deeper character work and more serious themes. The story centers on a conventional female protagonist facing challenges from the men around her – a wayward father, a dependent brother, a deceitful husband, and Governor Bill, who ultimately seems to be helping her only to further his own career. It’s no surprise she feels so frazzled given everything she’s dealing with.

The classic filmmaker’s new movie, their first in 15 years, is getting mixed reactions. While some viewers are enjoying it, many are struggling with its uneven tone, overly idealistic viewpoint, and references to politics from 2008. Currently, it has a 22% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 45 reviews.

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting movie to enjoy during the holidays, and you’re interested in seeing Emma Mackey play a governor, Ella McCay will be in theaters on December 12th.

Read More

2025-12-11 23:41