Early critic screenings ahead of its August 7 theatrical release have driven "Ice Cream Man" to a low 27-29% Tomatometer score based on roughly two dozen reviews, with widespread complaints about weak performances, clunky dialogue, and uninspired direction from Eli Roth. The unrated indie horror effort, self-financed and distributed through Roth’s Horror Section banner after he bypassed studio oversight, emphasizes graphic kills over substance, mirroring mixed fan reactions from pre-screenings. Metacritic sits near 39, underscoring generally unfavorable consensus. With the wide release imminent, any late reviews or audience Popcornmeter momentum could still shift the final certified score before the market resolves.