It received mostly positive reviews from critics, with a score of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes.[5]
Den of Geek awarded it a score of four out of five, saying "Most of all, Corman’s World paints a portrait of a filmmaker who, although not without flaw (his penny-pinching mode of operation didn’t always work in his favour), has earned a great deal of respect and fondness from those who’ve spent any time on set with him."[6]
The Observer said "Instead of the subtitle "Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel", this film could as easily be called "The Rebellion of a Hollywood Exploiter" for the way it records the ingenuity, daring and innovation that went into his productions and drove him to create his own studio and distribution company", but was critical of the fact that several of Corman's more acclaimed films were overlooked.[7]
The A.V. Club awarded it a score of B−, saying "Corman’s World establishes its subject as a fascinating contradiction, a madman with the calm, soothing, rational manner of the sanest man in the world. "[8]
The New York Times called it an "affectionate and informative documentary", praising both Corman's appearance in the film and its approach it his work.[9]
The London Evening Standard was more critical, calling it "A frustrating documentary about a frustrating man."[10]
The Hollywood Reporter praised the documentary, saying "Funny, quick-paced and stuffed with well-known interviewees, it naturally has far better niche theatrical prospects than anything its subject has produced lately."[11]
Dread Central awarded it a score of four and a half out of five, saying "It’s as inspiring as it is informative, and is a great tribute to a living legend."[12]
