Off the Map
User Score
9.0 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 23 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23

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  1. LuciaH.
    Apr 7, 2005
    9
    Really nice made. Great encouter with nature. Avoiding part of nudity would have been better. I would like my daugter to watch it. Really great movie.
  2. spencert.
    Mar 13, 2005
    10
    A sleeper hit! A must see. Loved it.
  3. TonyT.
    Apr 26, 2005
    9
    Best movie I've seen this year.
  4. ChadS.
    May 20, 2005
    9
    Whenever I think of home-schooled children, my mind inevitably leads back to ESPN's coverage of the 1997 Scripps-Howard Spelling Bee, and its champion Rebecca Sealfon." "Euonym. E! U! O! N! Y! M! EUONYM!" Bo (Valentina de Angelis) is the sort of neurotic, but extremely bright and percocious girl, I imagine the inspiration behind Myla Goldberg's "Bee Season", and an episode of "South Park" might be like at home. The success of "Off the Map" falls upon de Angelis' ability to be neurotic without annoying us, and she plays her scenes beautifully opposite Joan Allen and Frozen Caveman, I mean, Sam Elliott. As for the IRS man, I think he's the "Taxman" from "Rubber Soul". Written by George Harrison, J.K. Simmons, so happens to be playing a character named George. "Eleanor Rigby" follows the Harrison track, and the lyric "all the lonely people where do they all come from," really fits William Gibbs (Jim True-Frost). This is a ridiculous analysis, but an IRS agent that can paint is a ridiculous notion to begin with.… Expand
  5. JohnB.
    Apr 28, 2005
    9
    Amazing performances.
  6. thomasp.
    Mar 14, 2005
    10
    With all of the studio backed films being made these days, this film is a true breath of fresh air. Newcomer Valentina de Angelis certainly adds life to this beautiful story and carries her own opposite some of the most respected veterans in the business. A must see!!
  7. TraceyL.
    Mar 15, 2005
    10
    Joan Allen was luminous! Sam Elliot so out of character, finally! I loved the story. I loved the setting. Campbell Scott did a superb directorial job with this one.
  8. williamc.
    Apr 29, 2005
    10
    Just hope sam continues his acting career for a long time to come.
  9. AnitaW.
    May 9, 2005
    10
    I thought this movie was wonderful and the acting was superb. It's something that should really be experienced rather then explained. Since I've seen it, it's been on my mind every day and I wish I could see it again. Being new to the world of independent movies I don't know if it will available for purchase. If not I will be truly disappointed.
  10. DanB.
    Sep 9, 2005
    9
    Really enjoyed the characters. A lot like Station Agent in that way.
  11. CharlesM.
    Nov 10, 2005
    9
    A little slow paced but a terrific cast and great scenery make this a treat. Joan Allen is as usual, superb as is Valentina de Angelis. Well done.
  12. KeithW.
    Mar 12, 2005
    10
    I walked out speechless. I may not see a film like this ever again.
  13. BrendaR.
    Mar 14, 2005
    10
    I enjoyed this film. It was multi-dimensional and funnier than I expected it to be. The acting was as beautiful as the landscape. Valentina de Angelis as young Bo was terrific and kept the film together.

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
68 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 28
  3. Negative: 3 out of 28
  1. Chicago Reader
    Reviewed by: Patrick Z. McGavin
    70
    The plot is minimal, but the film is essentially an acting showcase. Allen is excellent.
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  2. Film Threat
    Reviewed by: Don R. Lewis
    70
    Any minor flaws Off the Map has are easily forgiven by great acting and beautifully shot landscapes. Campbell Scott does a great job of adapting a stage play (by screenwriter Joan Ackerman) to film as well.
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  3. The A.V. Club
    Reviewed by: Scott Tobias
    70
    Off The Map feels peculiar and remote, strangled by an air of arty disengagement. The most vivid characters are the earth and the sky, and they both give stellar performances.
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