Tessa Thompson’s latest film, Hedda, has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, achieving an impressive 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The movie, which is a reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s 1891 play Hedda Gabler, was both written and directed by Nia DaCosta, who previously collaborated with Thompson on the 2018 drama Little Woods and the Marvel Cinematic Universe film The Marvels.
Critical Acclaim for ‘Hedda’
Critics have praised Thompson’s portrayal of the complex titular character. Amon Warmann from Empire Magazine remarked, “Tessa Thompson has never been better as the titular not-so-desperate housewife in Nia DaCosta’s bold, stylish reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s timeless play.” This sentiment highlights the strong performances that underpin the film’s success.
In a review for Inverse, Lyvie Scott likened the film’s plot to a pressure cooker, describing it as “a diabolical psychological thriller” that elevates Hedda to a new level within the archetype of the monstrous feminine. The tension crafted by DaCosta is noted as a key element that drives the narrative.
Further emphasizing the film’s captivating nature, Wendy Ide of The Observer stated that Hedda is “as treacherous and unpredictable as Hedda herself.” While acknowledging that not every aspect of the film succeeds, Ide celebrated Thompson’s performance, calling it “glorious – all weaponised ennui, languid malice, and impeccable tailoring.”
Another positive review came from Linda Marric of The Sun, who described the film as “stylish, witty, and wickedly entertaining,” affirming DaCosta’s talent for reinventing familiar stories. In a review by William Bibbiani for TheWrap, he hailed the film as “a sensual, ingenious update of Ibsen’s classic play, honoring the grand theatrical tradition and transforming it into new, ecstatic cinema.”
Release Details and Audience Reception
Hedda premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2025, generating significant buzz prior to its official release. It debuted in select US theaters on October 22, 2025, and has since been made available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
As the film continues to attract attention, the Rotten Tomatoes score may fluctuate as additional reviews are published. Nonetheless, the current acclaim positions Hedda as a notable entry in the cinematic landscape, particularly in light of Thompson’s powerful performance and DaCosta’s innovative direction.
