Tullio Kezich from Corriere della Sera praised the film, describing it as a "noble example of neorealism" and an "austere exploration of suffering" whose emphasis is on "the authenticity of its settings and situations, and on the fragile humanity of the non-professional performers portraying their own lives".[5]Irene Bignardi from La Repubblica described it as "a moving and powerful example of Iranian neorealism" and "a heart-wrenching and harrowing film", "conveyed with sparing dialogue and powerful imagery".[2]Variety's critic Deborah Young criticized the film's experimental editing and lack of rhythm, and wrote: "the best Iranian films manage to turn simplicity into a virtue, but on that score Det Means Girl misses the mark".[1]