Best two reviews:
1) Screen International - If in the past Abu-Assad’s movies could be criticised for stridency, The Idol finds him sacrificing none of his thematic drive while locating a more humanistic, inspirational tone. (Rating: 80) Read Full Review >
2) Variety - The movie largely benefits from Abu-Assad’s natural talent for building suspense and rhythm; if the story’s elisions and fabrications occasionally feel too tidy, it more than earns its emotional impact on the strength of its excellent young cast. (Rating: 80) Read Full Review >

Worst two reviews:
11) RogerEbert.com - It’s all inspiring stuff, to be sure—and often so dramatic that it’s hard to imagine it really could have happened, even though it did. (Rating: 50) Read Full Review >
12) Austin Chronicle - Often impeded by ham-fisted, inspirational dialogue, The Idol is not likely to earn Assaf more worldwide admirers, but for those who are already in his fan club, this film will be received like a bonus gift. (Rating: 50) Read Full Review >