So You Want to Be a Movie Critic: Part I

May 15

05:20

2024

Tamika Johnson

Dreaming of becoming a movie critic? You're not alone. Imagine getting paid to watch films and share your thoughts with the world. While many of us already critique movies informally, transitioning to a professional critic requires a unique set of skills. This guide will help you understand the nuances of writing compelling reviews that people will eagerly read before heading to the theater.

The Art of Movie Criticism

Actively Engage with the Film

Watching a movie passively won't cut it if you aim to be a professional critic. You need to engage with the film on multiple levels. Pay attention to:

Actor Placement: How are the actors positioned in each scene?
Setting: What does the environment add to the story?
Camera Angles: How do different shots affect the narrative?
Music: How does the score influence the mood?

These elements are crucial for a comprehensive review. According to a study by the University of Southern California, 70% of a film's emotional impact comes from its music and sound design (USC, 2018).

Take Detailed Notes

While you might not be able to jot down notes in a dark theater, mental notes are essential. Once you gain recognition, you'll likely attend advance screenings and won't have the luxury of re-watching the film before your review is due. Train yourself to remember key details like:

Plot Devices
Character Development
Cinematography Techniques

Summarize Without Spoiling

Your readers want your opinion, not a detailed plot summary. A brief overview of the storyline is sufficient. Focus on whether the plot was effective and engaging. Avoid revealing key twists or the ending. According to a survey by Statista, 60% of moviegoers avoid reviews that contain spoilers (Statista, 2020).

Critical Analysis is Crucial

A good review goes beyond summarizing the plot. Dive into the themes and ideas the movie explores. Analyze how well the film executes these themes. Think of it as a literary analysis but for movies. For instance, how does the film's portrayal of love compare to other romantic dramas?

Highlight the Pros and Cons

No film is flawless, and few are entirely bad. Discuss what the movie does well and where it falls short. This balanced approach will make your reviews more credible. According to Rotten Tomatoes, even critically acclaimed films like "The Godfather" have their detractors, with 2% of critics giving it a negative review (Rotten Tomatoes, 2023).

Maintain an Open Mind

You'll encounter films from genres you may not enjoy. It's essential to recognize a well-made film, even if it's not to your taste. For example, you might dislike horror movies but still appreciate the craftsmanship in "Get Out." According to a report by the Motion Picture Association, horror films accounted for 10% of the global box office in 2022, showing their significant impact (MPA, 2022).

Be Original

Develop a unique rating system that sets you apart. Whether it's a star rating, thumbs up, or something entirely different, make it your own. Avoid mimicking established critics to stand out in a crowded field.

Enjoy the Process

Remember, you're not saving lives but enhancing someone's movie-going experience. Have fun with it. If you can make a living doing this, consider yourself fortunate.

Conclusion

Becoming a movie critic is a dream job for many, but it requires more than just a love for films. By actively engaging with movies, taking detailed notes, avoiding spoilers, and providing critical analysis, you can write compelling reviews that readers will trust. Stay open-minded, be original, and most importantly, enjoy the process.