AceShowbiz - Chris Pine's directorial debut "Poolman" has garnered a mixed reception from critics ahead of its release on Friday, May 10. Despite receiving a disappointing score of 21 percent on Rotten Tomatoes based on 33 reviews, Pine remains positive about the experience, describing it as "the best thing that's ever happened to me."

In an interview on the "Happy Sad Confused" podcast, Pine acknowledged the negative feedback, which he said was a "real come-to-Jesus moment" for him in terms of his resilience. The film, which Pine also wrote, produced and stars in, follows an optimistic Los Angeles pool man who strives to improve his city.

Despite the criticism, Pine insists that he loves the film. "As an actor...fundamentally it's about play, right?" he said. "What we do is essentially become children for hours a day and make believe." He added that he realized "how resilient I am" through the experience.

Pine's resilience has been tested, as he likened the process of creating "Poolman" to "a stand-up comedian on stage feeling utterly naked." He has even sought therapy to discuss the reception of the film.

Despite the negative reviews, Pine remains optimistic and believes the setbacks have benefited him. "In everything that feels like a setback, yes there is the hurt of the cut, but as the scar tissue forms and the healing process happens you do benefit from a growth in resilience," he said.

Pine's "Poolman" is set to hit theaters on Friday, May 10.