A passion for film criticism will show through in your work.
Be sure to watch as many “classic films” as you can–film critics often reference these. Search “classic films” online to find a number of lists. [3] X Research source Purchasing a subscription to a streaming service like Netflix is a great way to get access to a wide variety of films.
Form your own opinions about a given film, then read a critic’s review to see how your opinions compare with theirs. [5] X Research source Take note of your favorite critics’ writing style and tone, and examine how they present their ideas. How do humor and context factor in to the critique?[6] X Research source
You don’t need to study journalism to become a film critic, but it’s helpful if you want to make a career out of film criticism. [9] X Research source
Don’t be shy when it comes to expressing your opinion on your blog. Your content should be high quality, but also honest and genuine. [11] X Research source
While jobs with print media are becoming more scarce, digital media offers a wide range of new opportunities. Getting published is difficult, so don’t give up! It may take years of practice, so keep blogging, reading the work of other film critics, and studying film.
There are many freelance job sites online. Take some time to look at the listings to see if a project interests you. This will probably be a side job, at least initially. Many positions are part time, and likely won’t pay enough to be your only source of income.
An academic article is more formal than a review, and much longer. It is less focused on opinion, and assumes the reader has seen the film. A critical essay is less formal and more opinionated than an academic article, but more formal than a review. Don’t feel pressured to choose a particular form of criticism and stick to it. Many film critics write in all three forms, or blend different forms!
For example, you might observe that a director uses a lot of dark colors in his film. Through analysis, you might conclude that this use of color mirrors the dark emotions of the main character. Critical essays and academic articles focus on description and analysis, while reviews usually do not.
A film critic might interpret the film Snow White as a commentary on the pitfalls of vanity. Critical essays and academic articles offer interpretations, whereas reviews sometimes do, but often don’t.
A critic might offer the evaluation that Snow White is one of the best animated films of its time. Reviews focus heavily on evaluation, while critical essays and academic articles place less emphasis on evaluation.
You should base your judgments on general criteria for excellence. These include originality, good acting, technical skill, an engaging plot, and emotional intensity. Reading the work of other critics and watching high quality films will give you a better idea of what makes an excellent film. It’s fine to let your tastes show through in movie reviews–many critics do. Celebrity critics are often famous for displaying their preferences. Just make sure you are looking at the film with a critical eye, too.
Formal training in writing is not necessary, but it can help. Many employers, particularly those in mainstream media, look for film critics with a background in journalism or communication. Consider taking writing classes at your school, university, or local community college. [21] X Research source
Some critics believe that film can offer guiding wisdom to help people live better lives. Others believe that every film element has a significant symbolic value. To develop your own guiding philosophy, think about what film means to you as an art form and how it relates to life.
