The portrayal of Romeo by Tom Holland captivates audiences more than it impresses critics.

The fervent anticipation among fans outside the London theater where Spider-Man star Tom Holland is starring in Romeo and Juliet hasn't quite translated into unanimous acclaim from the critics inside.

The most enthusiastic review, a five-star appraisal from the Telegraph, praised Holland's performance, stating he "enraptures" and "entrances" as Romeo. However, at the opposite end of the spectrum, the Daily Express awarded the production one star, dismissing it as "complete nonsense" and labeling Holland as "lacking charisma."

Time Out remarked that the actor "adequately holds his own," while the Guardian characterized it as "a commendable effort." Other critics found it challenging to muster significant praise, describing Holland's portrayal of Romeo as "satisfactory," "adequate," and "reasonably convincing."

The critics generally showed more enthusiasm for Francesca Amewudah-Rivers' performance as Juliet, with Time Out's Andrzej Lukowski praising her as "excellent." He noted her airiness contrasting with Holland's solemnity.

Time Out awarded the production four stars, applauding director Jamie Lloyd's minimalist approach as "intriguingly unsettling" and likening it to "a particularly stylish radio play" in its staging.