[An] innocuous, blandly therapeutic remake of a comedy that wasn't exactly edgy to begin with.
– Justin Chang,
Variety,
8 Apr 2011
rotten:
It's amazing how a lifeless, pointless remake can provoke pangs of nostalgia about a mediocre movie. Such is the case with Arthur.
– James Berardinelli,
ReelViews,
10 Apr 2011
rotten:
Russell Brand gives a career-killing performance.
– David Edelstein,
New York Magazine/Vulture,
11 Apr 2011
rotten:
A blander, more responsible 'Arthur' with far fewer laughs and, be warned, a painful update on the classic Burt Bacharach title tune over the end credits.
– Trevor Johnston,
Time Out,
20 Apr 2011
rotten:
A pitiable remake of the sloshed "classic" from 1981.