film was given a rating average of 47 out of 100, based on 6 reviews, indicating "mixed or average reviews". Ronnie Scheib of Variety said, "A strange but true Romanian bank robbery provides inspiration for this darkly comic tale of history and its myriad interpretations. Shot in English with a mainly British and American cast, this surprisingly entertaining black comedy could connect with American [audiences]." John DeFore of The Hollywood Reporter wrote, "Though based on a true story, the film discards some of its claim to authenticity right off the bat, casting Brits and Americans in all the leads and having them speak English instead of Romanian; later, it will have trouble establishing the gang's motives for a crime they all but knew would lead to their execution. Stateside potential is modest for the semi-convincing yet enjoyable tale, relying on familiar names in a cast that acquits itself well given the demands of the unusual plot." Tara Karajica of Altcine.com wrote, "As far as the acting is concerned, the cast, mainly British and Vera Farmiga, Mark Strong, Harry Lloyd among many others, is evenly exceptional. The technical details as well as Doina Levinta's costumes and the choice of music are also top-notch. All in all, Closer to the Moon, with its tragico-burlesque tone, stellar cast and Caranfil's new and uncompromising vision is a bold, edifying and marvelous history lesson as well as a courageous contribution not only to the Romanian New Wave but also to cinema in general." Accolades See also Romanian New Wave Cinema of Romania References External links 2013 films 2010s crime comedy-drama films American crime comedy-drama films Films directed by Nae Caranfil Films shot in Romania Films shot in Bucharest English-language Romanian films Romanian comedy-drama films Romanian crime films 2013 comedy films 2013 drama films 2010s English-language films 2010s American films