"Variety" called it a "a joyless, soulless machine of a movie, an $80 million-plus mishmash". He discovered that their Christianity was essentially joyless and depressing. While Streeter continues to enjoy his good fortune, Goodhugh's life becomes grim and joyless. John O'Hara has written a joyless book about a sulky assignation. Owen Gleiberman of "Entertainment Weekly" rated it D- and called Murphy's performance joyless and depressing. Joyless is the life of Neobule, ever under the watchful eye of a strict guardian. Neil Drumming of "Entertainment Weekly" wrote, "Rehab is a joyless overdose of mid-tempo melodrama". Gary Goldstein of the "Los Angeles Times" dismissed the film as "a joyless grind". Carnero shows little sign of delight and a rather joyless reunion takes place. But what a joyless accomplishment it is. The motto "Fiel pero desdichado" is Spanish for "Faithful though Joyless". They ended their set with "A Joyless Euphoria". In the process, Joyless and his wife are treated as well, unwittingly to them. His cool and critical 1925 "Joyless Street" is a landmark of the objective style. Pevsner described it is a "joyless building".