It is a movie that embodies Saint Vincent, who was once veteran. This person became reluctant friend with the boy who was next to him and he is the same boy who recently divorced his parents. This guy seems to be trying to tell more details to the boy with lots of helpful and emotional lessons about a life full of difficulties.
St. Vincent will dodge your impulse to projectile vomit. For that, all hail Bill Murray who whacks away at the script's sentimental softballs like A-Rod in full swing.
Yes, we have seen this story before, but St Vincent is a warm, enjoyable yarn with just enough sharp lines and laugh out loud moments to see you through.
St. Vincent is no conventional hagiography but it's the movie world's equivalent - a star vehicle. Give director Melfi credit for knowing the capacity of the engine he has under its hood.
The adult supporting players are all excellent, but next to Murray, the key casting is Jaeden Lieberher as young Oliver. The kid is a natural in the sidekick role, never once playing it too cute or too actor-y.
Denver Post
October 17, 2014
It's good to see funny gal McCarthy playing the straight woman in this comedy rather than the appealing/appalling lout. It's even better to see a working mom depicted with care.
Cinemixtape
April 17, 2016
With his first feature film, writer-director Theodore Melfi has accomplished what many inveterate filmmakers haven't - he's gotten Bill Murray to come alive.
The cast raise the film to a considerable height, especially Bill Murray and Jaeder Lieberher, who has a surprising naturalness for a child of that age. [Full review in Spanish]
