At the time the movie was released, critics criticized the film's lack of originality. For example, "The New York Times" declared that "something more novel and subtle" was needed, although it also praised Beery's acting. "Variety," too, very much liked Beery in the film, noting that he delivered a "studied, adult" performance. "Time" called the film repetitive, blasted Cooper for sniveling, and accused director King Vidor of laying "on pathos with a steam-shovel." Nonetheless, "Time" praised the movie, declaring it "Utterly false and thoroughly convincing..." Many critics cited the "special chemistry" between Beery and Cooper, which led the two actors to be paired again numerous times. Cooper and Beery had no such chemistry off-screen. Cooper accused Beery of upstaging and other attempts to undermine his performances, out of what Cooper presumed was jealousy. Critics today still highly praise "The Champ".