I know the Texas screening was a fundraiser for planned parenthood. They can invite who they want. Considering maternal death rate doubled since Texas decided to defund PP these screenings carry a symbolic and spiritual meaning. It's a chance to strengthen and support each other and enjoy a fun night out. If three screenings out of thousands threaten your existence then I don't want to know you.
I was being general but yes there are secure male critics that will give an honest review. I'm sure there are women who don't like her. I'm talking majority. I'm not considering Trainwreck since she has become more controversial since that film. Critics are just like everyone else. I just don't think some of today's film critics bother to overcome their opinions about movies/actors.
This movie has a massive nostalgia factor going for it. The first one was a pretty good adaption of a King novel. It'll be hard to top Curry's performance. It should break all records for September.
The actors aren't being overly criticized, this one is landing on Eggers and Ponsoldt. Can't win them all. It doesn't sound like it is horrible. Maybe Hanks needed to be more of a villain than an actual real bad guy. Bad guys aren't always obvious. it'll tank on rotten tomatoes.
There are a few more negative or mixed coming out. Mostly issues with the plot but that goes with the book reception.
https://www.yahoo.com/movies/circle-review-tom-hanks-emma-140841344.html
They're positive, clearly not negative. Don't worry there will be plenty of negative and mixed reviews. It probably won't be fresh on RT. I like Ponsoldt's work but he isn't for everyone.
At least variety and the Hollywood reporter get it's a Ponsoldt movie.
http://variety.com/2017/film/reviews/the-circle-review-tom-hanks-emma-watson-1202400029/
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/circle-998036
That's estimated and I can't see how they spent that much. They just started pushing any type of promotion the last two weeks so the 4.27 last week makes sense. Literally no one knows about this movie. If they are spending money on commercials they are cutting major costs elsewhere.
If europacorp has $8m invested in it that's all they need back to cover cost. STX is just covering promotion and they haven't invested a lot. The production company paid off budget by selling off rights. Either way the US distributors have a good chance making a profit off it quickly. It's just good business for them to partner.