The film received mixed reviews from critics. Kristy Puchko of
RogerEbert.com wrote: "Overall, this wild-ass comedy is a jolting thrill ride, packed with barbed jokes, hilarious characters, and threaded with a sweet and simple romance that pulls us through the wonkier bits. Simply put,
First Date is a diamond in the rough, but a diamond nonetheless." Danielle Solzman of
Solzy at the Movies praised Crosby and Knapp's direction and positively compared the film to the work of
Robert Rodriguez,
Quentin Tarantino and the
Coen Brothers, while further adding: "I've seen some beautiful films in the NEXT program and
First Date could very well be the next hit to come from it. When we look back on this unique Sundance in a few years from now, we'll be able to say that's where Manuel Crosby and Darren Knapp were discovered." John DeFore of
The Hollywood Reporter was critical of the film, but praised the performances of Brown and Duclos, writing: "The film gets a bit more enjoyable as soon as the two share the screen together. But they have precious little time for flirty banter before Knapp and Crosby throw them back into action copped from other genre movies. This time it's a
True Romance-like standoff between teams of heavily armed people arguing over drugs and money. It's amazing how much of this mayhem Mike survives before the script decides it's time for him to do something." ==References==