Steve Carell’s ‘Mountainhead’ Divides Fans and Critics, Sparking Backlash on Rotten Tomatoes

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On Saturday, May 31st, Jesse Armstrong’s new HBO production titled “Mountainhead” will premiere. While it has received positive reviews from critics, fans haven’t been as generous in their appraisal of this satirical comedy. Featuring Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, Cory Michael Smith, and Ramy Youssef, the movie revolves around four billionaire friends who escape to a secluded retreat during global chaos triggered by AI-produced disinformation. With a 79% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, the film’s audience score, represented by the Popcornmeter, stands at a mere 26%. Many viewers were anticipating great things from Armstrong, but instead found the movie nearly “unwatchable.

User Arlen B remarked, “This movie was truly disappointing.” He explained, “It felt like an endless Saturday Night Live skit, leading to a storyline that was downright awful.” Ryan H found it absurd that this is categorized as a comedy. Taj M, on the other hand, was left bewildered after watching it.

I’m not particularly fond of tech moguls who amass billions, but this production was nearly impossible to watch. The characters lacked intrigue or appeal, there seemed to be no narrative or underlying theme, and the conclusion felt unsatisfying and anticlimactic. Frankly, it left me wondering what the purpose behind it all was.

It’s possible that if Armstrong and team had spent a bit more time refining Mountainhead, it could have been more favorably accepted by viewers. The entire production was finished in just six months, with the script initiation in January 2025, filming commencing in March, and the movie’s premiere at the end of May. On Rotten Tomatoes, Kane P commented, “I kept hoping it would get more engaging, but it never did,” while Simeon G added, “Those who claim a high IQ is necessary to appreciate this are merely trying to justify an emperor wearing no clothes.

The film had great promise as a critique of cold-hearted tycoons, but the exaggerated dialogue paradoxically made me sympathize with billionaires. It’s unfortunate that a gifted ensemble struggled to breathe life into such an obvious target – the detached wealthy elite. I was left feeling let down.

‘Mountainhead’ Does Have Its Fans

Approximately 74% of people seem unimpressed by the film “Mountainhead,” yet it doesn’t mean that the movie lacks supporters altogether. For instance, Adam W asserts that once you realize this is satire, you will admire its brilliance. He also points out that even though it may not appeal to a wider audience, it’s deeply thought-provoking and genius how the characters depict themselves. If you agree with Adam, then surely you find “Mountainhead” impressive. Rotten Tomatoes user Christopher P also commended the film, expressing high praise for its complexity.

The conversation was witty, brimming with Silicon Valley swagger, subtly exposing the treacherous landscape of narcissism and self-doubt. It’s akin to a play with minimal props and heavy dialogue, and I believe it effectively delivers its message. While there were opportunities for more humor, many lines still resonate well.

Despite some positive reviews, it’s undeniable that the movie “Mountainhead” has largely fallen short of expectations for many viewers, which is unfortunate considering the success of “Succession”. With Armstrong known for his exceptional work, we had high hopes, but unfortunately, this time it didn’t quite hit the mark. It seems he needs to go back to the drawing board and come up with something new. Here’s hoping that his next project will receive a warmer welcome, as “Mountainhead” is now available for streaming on HBO Max.

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2025-06-02 18:02