The Righteous (2021 film)

Briana Zigler of The Film Stage graded the film B-, writing that "In a narrative about religious penance with—albeit, somewhat bafflingly—supernatural flourishes, the script (also penned by O’Brien) is far too reliant on taking the most literal approach possible to its gray subject material. It adds a curious dimension to shooting the film in black-and-white (cinematography credited to Scott McClellan). The Righteous fully embraces murky middle ground of human nature but is far too hesitant to embrace a similarly obscure narrative approach."[2]

For Screen Daily, Allan Hunter wrote that "Working from a modest budget, an inventive O’Brien places his faith in a wordy screenplay and the strength of the performances. Key moments in the film come down to two people talking across a kitchen table with changes in lighting to convey shifting moods. He provides a showcase for himself and the other actors with a static camera focused on them as they deliver lengthy anecdotes, memories or tangled justifications for past acts. Czerny brings gravitas to a man burdened by the weight of his guilt, and Kuzyk is an especially warm, sympathetic presence as the good-hearted Ethel, leaving you wanting more of her character."[4]

• The Righteous at IMDb