What Makes a Good Film Critique
Films are a dynamic art form that evoke a plethora of emotions, opinions, and discussions. Whether a blockbuster
or an indie gem, every movie is a canvas ripe for analysis and critique. This blog post delves into the
methodology behind crafting an insightful and engaging movie review. By following these essential guidelines,
you’ll be able to translate your thoughts into well-articulated critiques, tailored to captivate and inform your
audience. From initial preparation to the final polish, and understanding the role of various cinematic elements,
these steps ensure your voice is distinct and impactful in the world of film critique.
## How to Write a Movie Review
1. Watch the film at least once.
The foundation of a solid movie critique is a thorough understanding of the film. Watching a movie more than
once, if possible, allows you to catch nuances that you might miss on a first viewing. Pay attention to the
storyline, character development, and intricate details that contribute to the film’s atmosphere and
narrative.
Taking notes during or immediately after watching the movie can also be incredibly helpful. Jot down specific
scenes or lines that resonate with you or aspects that you find confusing or poorly executed. These notes will
serve as the backbone of your critique, providing you with concrete examples to back your opinions.
2. Express your opinions and support your criticism.
Your personal take on the film is what makes your critique unique. Be clear and concise in expressing what
worked or didn’t work for you. Avoid vague statements and generalizations; instead, back your opinions with
specific examples and analysis.
If a film struggled with pacing or felt visually stunning, explain why you think so. Refer to specific scenes,
dialogue, or technical choices that support your stance. This approach not only strengthens your argument but
also engages the reader by painting a vivid picture of your viewing experience.
3. Consider your audience.
Understand who your audience is and tailor your critique accordingly. Are you writing for casual movie-goers or
film enthusiasts who are interested in the finer details of filmmaking? This will influence not only the content
of your critique but also the language and tone you use.
If your audience isn’t familiar with film terminology, avoid jargon and keep explanations straightforward. On the
other hand, if they’re cinephiles, feel free to delve into more analytical discussions of cinematography,
editing styles, and narrative techniques.
4. Talk about the acting.
Actors bring a film’s characters to life, playing a crucial role in the narrative and emotional impact. Assessing
their performance involves more than just their screen presence; consider their ability to convey emotion,
embody character traits, and deliver dialogue naturally.
Highlight standout performances and analyze what made them effective. Alternatively, if you feel a performance
fell flat, discuss why it didn’t resonate with you. This exploration of acting will add depth to your review,
offering readers insight into the human element of the film.
5. Call out directors, cinematographers, and special effects.
Behind every film are the creative minds consistently innovating and pushing technical boundaries to bring
stories to life. Directors, cinematographers, and special effects artists play significant roles in shaping the
film’s visual and auditory experience.
Directors set the film’s overall tone, guiding actors and crew to achieve a unified vision. Discuss how the
director’s vision is executed through scenes, storytelling techniques, and thematic development. Similarly, a
cinematographer’s work can define the aesthetic and mood of a movie. Evaluate how effective the cinematography
is in enhancing the storytelling.
6. No spoilers!
In crafting a review, it’s crucial to remember that your readers may not have seen the film yet. Spoilers can
ruin a moviegoer’s experience, so it’s essential to be mindful of the points you divulge. Provide enough context
to support your opinions but avoid revealing major plot twists or endings.
Consider creating a spoiler-free version and, if necessary, a spoiler section with a warning for those who have
already seen the film. This balance ensures you cater to all audiences while maintaining the thrill of
discovering a new movie.
7. Study the professionals.
To refine your critique skills, explore reviews from seasoned critics. Notice how professionals articulate their
thoughts, structure their reviews, and employ language to express their perspectives effectively. This doesn’t
mean you should mimic them but rather gather inspiration and insight into different critique methods.
An understanding of the style and approach of various critics will help you develop your analytical framework,
ensuring that your voice remains original yet informed.
8. Reread, rewrite, and edit.
Your first draft is rarely your best work. Devote time to rereading, rewriting, and editing your critique. During
this process, focus on clarity, coherence, and flow. Remove redundant statements, sharpen awkward phrasing, and
ensure your critique is well-rounded and engaging.
Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors who understand film critique. They can provide valuable insights
that could help refine your draft, ultimately crafting a polished and professional review.
9. Find your voice.
Your unique voice is your greatest asset as a critic. While it’s beneficial to learn from others, your personal
style and perspective are what make your critique stand out. Consider what you bring to your reviews that others
don’t, whether it’s humor, a focused analytical lens, or a distinct narrative flair.
Commit to maintaining authenticity in your writing. Your audience will appreciate your genuine perspective and
distinctive approach to film critique.
10. Know your taste.
Recognizing your own movie preferences can guide your reviews and help you acknowledge biases. Are you drawn to
thrillers, dramas, or documentaries? Be aware of the genres you gravitate towards and watch a diverse array to
widen your critique spectrum.
This self-awareness enables you to appreciate various cinematic styles and narratives, ultimately enriching your
critiques and fostering a broader perspective.
Learn More About Filmmaking at NYFA.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of filmmaking and critique, the New York Film Academy offers a
multitude of courses. Whether it’s screenwriting, directing, or cinematography, NYFA provides invaluable
resources to enhance your understanding of the industry.
By expanding your knowledge, you can add depth to your movie critiques, bringing a well-rounded view of the many
elements that contribute to the art of film.
Lessons Learned
| Key Points | Summary |
|---|---|
| Watch the film at least once | Grasp the narrative and catch details for a thorough analysis |
| Express your opinions | Provide supported, specific critiques rather than vague statements |
| Consider your audience | Tailor content and language to suit audience’s knowledge level |
| Talk about the acting | Analyze performances for character development and emotional impact |
| Call out technical roles | Discuss director’s vision, cinematography, and special effects |
| No spoilers | Maintain a balance between context and revelatory content |
| Study the professionals | Learn from seasoned critics to refine your critique style |
| Reread, rewrite, and edit | Iterate on drafts for clarity and engagement |
| Find your voice | Maintain authenticity while developing a distinctive critique style |
| Know your taste | Recognize your preferences and expand watching scope |
