Who Is a Film Critic?
Film. Sometimes an escape from reality, other times a mirror of it. We watch it in cinemas, at home, at festivals. But have you ever wondered who helps us understand this complex world, interpret it, or simply see it from a different perspective? Who, though not behind the camera or managing the set, has a huge impact on how we perceive and understand cinema? Today, we’ll take a closer look at a figure who, though often invisible, plays a key role in the dialogue with cinematic art – the Film Critic.
We often imagine a film critic as someone who sits comfortably in a chair, watches movies, and then writes whether they liked them or not. But the role is much more complex and demands far more than just personal taste. A film critic is not just a reviewer, but above all, an analyst, interpreter, and cultural commentator whose task is to help viewers delve into and appreciate the art of film. And which critics throughout history have most influenced how we perceive cinema? Let’s explore their legacy!
A Film Critic Is More Than a Reviewer
While reviewing films is an important part of a critic’s job, it’s not everything. The difference between a reviewer and a critic is subtle, but significant:
A reviewer often focuses on current releases. Their goal is to quickly inform viewers whether a film is “worth it” in terms of entertainment – is it worth spending money on a ticket? Reviews are usually short and evaluate a film based on its plot, acting, and overall impression.
A film critic goes a step further. Their work involves deep analysis, placing the film in a broader historical, cultural, social, and artistic context. A critic asks: “Why was this film made? What does it say about our world? What are its inspirations and its influence on other creators? What cinematic techniques were used and why?”
Film criticism is a form of dialogue with art, enriching the viewer’s experience and deepening their understanding of cinema.
The Greatest Film Critics in History: Voices That Shaped Cinema
What makes a critic a legend? It’s the combination of analytical depth, originality of thought, influence on filmmakers and audiences, and a distinctive writing style.
Here are a few of the giants of film criticism whose work changed the way we think about cinema:
1. André Bazin (France, 1918–1958) – Father of the New Wave and the Auteur Theory
Considered one of the most important film theorists and critics in history, Bazin co-founded the influential journal Cahiers du Cinéma, which became the breeding ground for the French New Wave. He championed realism in film — the idea that cinema should authentically reflect reality. He promoted the “auteur theory,” which sees the director as the film’s main author, imbuing it with their unique style and vision, like a novelist. Bazin valued deep focus and long takes, praising directors like Orson Welles and Jean Renoir for allowing viewers to interpret scenes freely, without being guided by editing. His writings, posthumously collected in What Is Cinema?, are fundamental for any film scholar.
2. Pauline Kael (USA, 1919–2001) – Brilliant and Controversial
An icon of American film criticism, Kael was known for her sharp wit, bold opinions, and passionate style. Writing for The New Yorker for decades, she became a voice impossible to ignore. She rejected academic rigidity, writing with energy, intelligence, and personal sensitivity that resonated with millions. Her texts were rich in humor, anecdotes, and deep cultural insights. She wasn’t afraid to criticize revered directors or defend underappreciated films. Her approach proved that film criticism could be an art form in itself, not just dry analysis.
3. Roger Ebert (USA, 1942–2013) – The Critic for Millions
Roger Ebert is arguably the most recognized and influential film critic in the English-speaking world. He wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times and co-hosted a wildly popular TV show (first with Gene Siskel, later with Richard Roeper), bringing film criticism to a mass audience. His reviews were accessible, clear, and always focused on what a film offered the viewer. Ebert had a rare talent for explaining complex ideas simply while maintaining analytical depth. Though known for his “thumbs up/thumbs down” ratings, his true strength lay in engaging readers in meaningful discussions about film, sharing his passion, and teaching audiences how to appreciate cinematic art. His website and legacy continue his mission today.
4. François Truffaut (France, 1932–1984) – From Critic to Creator
Before becoming one of the most influential French New Wave directors (The 400 Blows, Jules and Jim), Truffaut was a sharp, uncompromising critic for Cahiers du Cinéma. His famous essay A Certain Tendency of the French Cinema served as a manifesto for the New Wave, attacking conservative French cinema and promoting the auteur theory. Alongside fellow critics-turned-directors like Godard, Rohmer, Chabrol, and Rivette, Truffaut proved that directors could indeed be the true authors of their work. He demonstrated how criticism could be revolutionary, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers.
5. James Agee (USA, 1909–1955) – The Poet of Criticism
James Agee was an American writer and film critic whose reviews for The Nation and Time in the 1940s stood out for their eloquence, poetic style, and sensitivity to the nuances of cinema. His writing was far more literary than typical reviews, full of emotion, insight, and a sense of beauty beyond mere analysis. He treated film as a powerful moral and aesthetic art form. To this day, his work inspires those who seek depth, elegance, and artistic richness in film criticism.
Their Legacy: How They Shaped Our Perception of Cinema
These giants, along with many other outstanding critics (like Andrew Sarris, B. Ruby Rich, Molly Haskell or Polish masters like Zygmunt Kałużyński and Tadeusz Sobolewski), left an invaluable legacy. Their work not only helped audiences understand and appreciate films on a deeper level but also influenced the creative process itself.
Thanks to them:
- Cinema was recognized as Art: Critics elevated film from mere entertainment to a legitimate art form deserving serious analysis and reflection.
- Film theory flourished: Concepts like auteur theory and cinematic realism became foundational in film studies.
- Audience awareness grew: Viewers learned to pay attention to direction, visual style, editing, and other technical elements that were once overlooked.
- A dialogue emerged between creators and audiences: Criticism became a bridge, enabling filmmakers to better understand their reception, and helping audiences grasp artistic intent.
A Voice That Opens Eyes to Cinema’s Magic
The role of a film critic is not just to evaluate, but to educate, inspire, and deepen our cinematic experiences. The great critics of the past did not merely write about movies — they created the very language through which we discuss them. They opened our eyes to hidden meanings and taught us to appreciate this extraordinary art form. Their legacy lives on, continuing to inspire new generations of critics and film lovers around the world.