Release: Fletch

 

Fletch

Genre: Dark Comedy/Mystery

Director: Richard Linklater

Writer: Chad Taylor

Based on the novel by Gregory McDonald

Cast: Glen Powell, Christina Hendricks, Tracy Letts, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Kaia Gerber, Shea Whigham, Hunter Schafer, Michael Stuhlbarg, Joe Lo Truglio, Toby Huss, Zoey Deutch, Danny DeVito

Budget: $50,000,000

Domestic Box Office: $84,104,595

Foreign Box Office: $39,054,565

Total Profit: $19,009,446

Reaction: A big budget dark comedy (or really a comedy of any sort) is always a risky proposition. Considering the marketing almost completely relied on Glen Powell's star power, it is safe to say he's officially an A-Lister.

"While Fletch has a strong lead performance and moments of clever humor, it struggles with pacing and focus. The plot is packed with moving parts—fake identities, conspiracies, and side threads—but doesn’t always tie them together cleanly, leading to stretches that feel aimless. Glen Powell is undeniably good in the role, bringing charm and energy, but he’s no Chevy Chase, whose take arguably defined the character beyond even the original novels." - Ken Hammerschmidt, Washington Post​

"Fletch is a breezy, sharp-tongued mystery that thrives on Glen Powell’s effortless charisma. Richard Linklater leans into the film’s loose, conversational style, letting the humor and intrigue unfold naturally rather than forcing traditional beats. Powell’s Fletch is equal parts smarmy and likable, carrying the film through its winding plot with confidence. While the mystery occasionally meanders, the film’s wit and performances make it an engaging, offbeat ride." - Clark Davis, JoBlo.com

"Fletch is a laid-back neo-noir that thrives on clever dialogue and the easy charisma of Glen Powell, who makes the slippery journalist feel both charming and self-sabotaging. Richard Linklater leans into a shaggy 1970s vibe, letting conversations and character quirks drive the mystery more than traditional plot mechanics. The central twist is smart, but the film occasionally wanders and could use tighter pacing. The last couple of scenes to me feel rushed. It’s not the funniest or most thrilling version of Fletch, but it’s a witty, offbeat detective story that mostly lands." - Elena Strauss, The Continental Screen

Rated R for language, drug use, and some sexual content.