The 40-Year-Old Version

"Her story is authentic because it is hers; she does not need to represent her entire race or age or gender. She has created thoughtful, appealing characters with a terrific cast that keeps the story involving, none better than Blank herself, who lets us see Radha's vulnerability as well as her resilience."

"This is a very unhurried film (I wondered if it might have been better to lose 20 or so minutes) but it has a distinctive language of its own, and a feel for the city."

"Blank’s lively debut feels liberated by its maker’s creative freedom."

"Better late than never, this film is Blank’s shot, and by staying so true to her voice, her aim hits home."

"The 40-Year-Old Version doesn’t overcome all of its rough edges, but they’re so closely tied to the personality of the creator that it’s hard to shake the underlying appeal."

"The 40-Year-Old Version is a beautiful achievement, one that ultimately calls attention to the huge gaps in representation of different kinds of black characters on film. It’s a gap that Blank clearly intends to fill; I can’t wait to see what she does next."

"In every scene, Blank’s work shines as a writer, a director and as an actor. Her relentless charisma and authenticity tinged with wit carry every scene of the film, making it a joy to witness. This is the arrival of a talented voice in indie film."