‘Verity’ Rotten Tomatoes score divides critics ahead of Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson thriller release

Verity has received a mixed Rotten Tomatoes score ahead of its theatrical release, with critics divided over the Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson-led psychological thriller.

The film debuted with a 54% Tomatometer score based on 28 critics' reviews on September 30.

The figure shifted as more reviews arrived, with Deadline reporting 52% from 29 reviews and MovieWeb later citing 50% from 30 reviews.

The film, directed by Michael Showalter, stars Hathaway as bestselling author Verity Crawford and Johnson as struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh. Josh Hartnett also features in the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel.

Critical reactions have varied considerably. Variety criticised the film’s handling of the erotic thriller genre, while The Hollywood Reporter’s Richard Lawson argued that it was neither sexy nor smart.

Other reviewers were more positive. Screen Rant’s Liz Declan awarded Verity 8 out of 10, calling it potentially the best Hoover adaptation yet and praising Johnson’s performance. HeyUGuys’ Linda Marric gave the film 3 out of 5, highlighting its melodrama, glamour and twists.

Even some negative reviews praised the cast. Slashfilm’s Nina Starner gave the film 2 out of 10 but described Hathaway as a “saving grace”, while Deadline’s Pete Hammond called both leading performers magnetic.

A recurring criticism concerns the film’s tone, with reviewers questioning whether it successfully balances erotic thriller elements with comedy and melodrama.

Verity opens in cinemas on October 2 with an R rating and a runtime of 1 hour and 54 minutes.