Jacob's Ladder
User Score
8.3 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 28 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 28
  3. Negative: 1 out of 28

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  1. ryancarroll88
    Aug 27, 2010
    7
    A surprisingly effective atmospheric thriller whose visual artistry has influenced the horror genre both in movies (Asian horror) and video games (Silent Hill, definitely). Still, the pacing of the movie is a bit off, as there are parts that I felt could have been left out, and I didn't think Tim Robbins was a good choice for the role. On top of that, I pretty much predicted the ending before even watching, but luckily the director was smart enough not to make it a blatant twist, but rather braces the viewer for the revelation, suggesting it throughout the movie (a rare case for thrillers) Also, wtf - Jason Alexander and Macauly Culkin?… Expand
  2. JohnL.
    Jun 24, 2007
    10
    I was freaked-out by this film when I originally saw it at an advanced screening, and I have enjoyed it more and more on repeat viewings. A brilliant examination of redemption and love, death and forgiveness. Tim Robbins gives a brave and uncompromising performance!
  3. Boffboff
    Jun 21, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If you think its about flashback caused by the war YOU ARE WRONG! If you think this movie is about paranoia, YOU ARE WRONG ! The movie is about the human mind ! the story examines the undetermined mystery of death. in my opinion jacob's ladder was the prototype for movies like "the matrix", "stay" or "the 13th floor".
    If you are searching for an simple horror movie or thriller then you you shouldn't watch jacob's ladder. The movie is even more complex than the most of you might think. Plz don't rate this movie if you don't get the (real) conclusion.    … Expand
  4. Subject98
    Apr 3, 2013
    10
    One of the few psychological horror films I've seen done really well. It's not your traditional kind of horror movie where the emphasis is on jump scares and freaking you out with gory imagery, though those things are present. This one follows a war veteran as his deeply rooted trauma slowly takes hold of him after returning home. I don't wanna spoil anything though as the plot takes a lot of twists and dips. See it.… Expand
  5. alfaalex101
    Apr 1, 2013
    8
    I'm going to be honest. I watch scary movies so I can make of them with my brother. Scary movies ought to be the most mind numbing and predictable genre out there, save for the jock action movie's where the script is replaced by explosions, lens flare, jets, grunting and sparks. But when we started watching this movie, right from the get go we knew we chose the wrong movie. I don't want to ruin the movie but here are a few things I liked about it. The movie helps you understand and sympathize with the protagonist suffering from PTSD, almost being able to justify his outbursts while at the same time remembering that he indeed is crazy. There are plenty of scares in this movie that will make you stop the movie or glance at your partner and say "...Man...That..was F****ED UP! WHAT THE FU**!". There are quiet a few scenes that will be branded into your memory for a long time to come, unlike other forgettable movies. This movie won't be one to leave you traumatized or anything but it will for sure be worth your time. Turn up the volume by the way because dialogue can be a little recessed. Oh and grab some food. I'm definably going to watch this movie again (something I RARELY ever do) with my friends.… Expand
  6. Compi24
    Mar 23, 2013
    7
    Thanks to a decidedly brilliant script from Bruce Joel Rubin and an agonizing performance from Tim Robbins, "Jacob's Ladder" manages to be one of the few chiller movies I've ever seen that actually pulls off a fulfilling ending.

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
62 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 20 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 20
  3. Negative: 3 out of 20
  1. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Roger Ebert
    88
    This movie left me reeling with turmoil and confusion, with feelings of sadness and despair. Those are the notes it strives for.
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  2. ReelViews
    Reviewed by: James Berardinelli
    88
    I wouldn't go so far as to classify Jacob's Ladder as a masterpiece, but it is smart and compelling and unquestionably worth a first or second look.
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  3. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Janet Maslin
    90
    The ending of Jacob's Ladder, when it finally arrives, is, like much of the film, both quaint and devastating.
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