what “Palmer” is, in every sense of the word, is decent. It's familiar, and predictable, and a little bit hokey. But it’s also genuinely moving and surprisingly memorable, thanks to its two leads
the plot is predictable but well-measured, the characters are familiar but full of life; “Palmer” isn't exactly high art, but it's no small feat for something so predictable to avoid feeling dishonest
Justin Timberlake successfully stretches in a mostly formulaic drama; Guerriero's script shows admirable restraint in letting us draw our own comparisons between the plight of the felon and the gender nonconformist
Justin Timberlake is a bit stoic and monotone in his performance, but the movie's bright outlook outweighs its muddled execution. It has a lot of heart, and heart matters
in "Palmer," Justin Timberlake gives one of the best performances of his career; the messaging is so earnest and the performances are so heartfelt; Young Ryder Allen is amazingly good at playing Sam, whose spirit and goodness will break your heart
a tender, earnest tale of how love and nurturing can truly change lives; "Palmer" effectively pulls at the heartstrings, and it's a lovely meditation on the unexpected bonds we form and the healing they can provide
"Palmer" derives a quiet strength from its performances and the narrative arc of the title character; Directed by actor and documentarian Fisher Stevens, "Palmer" certainly doesn't break any ground, but its simple story is sensitively told
by Benjamin Lee [The Guardian ]
by Richard Roeper [Chicago Sun-Times ]
