I've watched Blackberry – it totally deserves its 98% Rotten Tomatoes score

The film looks at the rise and fall of the iconic phone manufacturer, Blackberry

A still from the movie Blackberry
(Image credit: Fetch Publicity)

Every now and again, a film comes along which totally blows away critics. We've already had a fairly stellar year for that – the Barbenheimer films both attained magnificent reviews and drove people back to cinemas en masse.

Now, another film is coming along which has the tongues of critics wagging. After all, a Rotten Tomatoes score of 98% is no mean feat. That film is Blackberry, which depicts the rise and fall of the iconic smartphone manufacturer of the same name.

And I know what you're thinking. "Huh, well... that doesn't sound like a film with the makings of a classic."

But don't be too quick to judge. Because this genuinely deserves every modicum of praise it receives. The film follows the journey from a plucky upstart in search of funding, through to the astronomical heights of being one of the foremost phone brands on the planet.

Of course, the story will only take you so far. After all, we all know how it ends. But the story is only the basis of the brilliance on show here. Deftly crafted characters bring us to and from the brink on a seemingly endless loop. 

You'll find yourself caring for the characters you expected to hate, and hating the characters you expected to love at various points. It's something of an emotional rollercoaster.

Perhaps my favourite part, though, is the juxtaposition between the corporate and collegiate worlds. The opening half is littered with moments that you just can't help but laugh at – watching Doug and Mike try to pay for a corporate lunch with coins from a velcro Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles wallet, for example.

But it's equally filled with subtleties. When you watch this – and I'd wholeheartedly recommend it – keep an eye on the camerawork. At the start, things are a little shaky and documentary-esque, but become more cinematic as the film progresses and the company grows into a more professional outfit. It's a small thing, but it lends a real sense of completeness to the whole film.

Sam Cross
Senior Staff Writer

Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.

Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.

He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.

Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.