Emma Thompson’s ’90s-set “crowd-pleaser” with stacked British cast is now streaming for free

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The British comedy How to Build a Girl, based on Caitlin Moran’s novel, is now available to watch for free on Channel 4’s streaming service. It originally aired on Film4 last night.

Like most movies on these streaming services, it will be available to watch for the next 29 days.

The movie centers on a young woman chasing her ambition to become a music journalist, transforming into a confident and stylish rock critic. But as she strives for success, she risks losing sight of what truly matters and pushing away the people she cares about.

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The film features a talented British cast, with stars like Emma Thompson, Alfie Allen, Sarah Solemani, Paddy Considine, Frank Dillane, Joanna Scanlan, and Jameela Jamil.

The film also features appearances by Michael Sheen, Lucy Punch, Bob Mortimer, Lily Allen, Andi Oliver, Alexei Sayle, Gemma Arterton, and the duo Mel & Sue.

Beanie Feldstein, an American actress, stars as Johanna in the film. She’s joined by Irish actors Chris O’Dowd and Sharon Horgan.

Critics generally liked the film, giving it a 79% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 139 reviews.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, this funny and energetic comedy, directed by Coky Giedroyc and starring the charismatic Beanie Feldstein, offers insightful commentary on topics like social class, relationships, and what it means to be a woman.

Empire praised How to Build a Girl, highlighting it as a strong demonstration of Kaitlyn Dever’s talent as a lead actress.

In his review, Mark Kermode also praised the supporting performances, particularly Paddy Considine as Johanna’s father, who dreams of being a rock star, and Sarah Solemani as her mother, who is struggling with the challenges of new motherhood but remains remarkably strong.

The Austin Chronicle enjoyed the lead actor’s “charming and disarming” performance, though they mentioned one potential issue that might bother some viewers.

“Feldstein is demonstrably too old to still be cast in these teenager parts,” it said.

How to Build a Girl can be streamed now on Channel 4.

The latest issue of Living Legends is now available, and it’s dedicated to the incredible Dolly Parton! You can purchase ‘Dolly at 80’ at newsstands or online for only £8.99.

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2026-01-15 17:19