A common complaint is that the movie feels like "style in search of a purpose". Critics at Rotten Tomatoes suggest it has enough imagery for ten movies but lacks the "emotional kick" to make them resonate.

“The Brothers Grim may have horrendous CGI and a clunky plot to follow through, but the film was quite enjoyable and became okay at best.” Metacritic

Heath Ledger and Matt Damon are often cited as highlights, with Ledger’s performance as the more sensitive, socially awkward Jacob Grimm being particularly well-received.

The film is widely praised for its "limitless invention" and "lavish sets". Reviewers from Empire note that Gilliam excels in horrific, dark fantasy scenes, such as a child-swallowing horse.