The film received positive reviews from critics. Based on 64 reviews collected by Rotten Tomatoes, 66% of the critics enjoyed "The Rocketeer" with an average score of 6.2/10. The site's consensus states: "An action-packed, if anachronistic, look back at pulp matinee serials, "The Rocketeer" may ring hollow with viewers expecting more than simple fun and gee-whiz special effects." Metacritic gave the film a score of 61 out of 100, based on reviews from 8 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews". Audiences surveyed by CinemaScore gave the film a grade A- on scale of A to F.