Julia Roberts faces backlash as new film receives harsh reviews

In Italy, the film 'After the Hunt' had its world premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2025. The movie, which stars Julia Roberts, Ayo Edebiri, and Andrew Garfield, has been criticized by Rotten Tomatoes critics, who have collectively given it a rating of 52% based on 29 reviews. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the film is described as a psychological drama centered on a college professor facing accusations from a student while dealing with her own troubled past. Critical reception has been mixed, with several reviewers sharing their negative assessments. Stephanie Zacharek of TIME Magazine noted that despite Julia Roberts' star power, the film sap the life out of her performance. David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter echoed similar sentiments, expressing disbelief that Guadagnino, known for his previous works, could produce something so somber and static. Owen Gleiberman of Variety pointed out that while the film is crafted with intrigue, it presents a muddled narrative filled with unanswered questions. Conversely, not all critics dismissed the film entirely. Some, like Nicolas Barber of the BBC, acknowledged its potential to provoke thoughtful discussions among viewers, even while voicing their concerns about its clarity. Others have noted that the film holds merit and displays the moral dilemmas expected of Guadagnino’s projects, maintaining interest in its thematic explorations. In the midst of the criticism, Julia Roberts has reportedly responded, defending her film and her role in it amidst the backlash. Despite the challenging reviews, the film is set to open in theaters on October 17, 2025, which may influence its audience reception further as critics' evaluations evolve over time.