Film Critic

OFO No:

What is a Film Critic?

Can you imagine a job where you actually get paid to watch movies? That’s precisely what a Film Critic does.

Film Critics are paid to watch films of all genres (subjects) and give their brutally honest opinion in the form of written reviews.

Film Critics usually attend a film’s opening, so they see the film and crit it long before the public gets to see it.

A review from a Film Critic is subjective. A Film Critic should have good sense of quality to distinguish a cheesy comedy from an awarding winning comedy, a spaghetti western from a good western film etc.

Reviews from Film Critics are publicised on the radio, television, in various print media, on the internet etc – which means that Film Critics may have a significant influence over audience attendance.

However, reviews must never reveal the ending or give too much away.

Film Critics must have a love of arts, culture and journalism.

NOTE:  Only a handful of Film Critics make it ‘big’, –  many Film Critics write other articles as well for newspapers, blogs etc as a side profession.

What does a Film Critic do?

• watches film screenings – sometimes more than one in a day
• evaluates the acting, editing, plot, themes, and quality of the script and soundtrack
• attends film openings otherwise known as premieres
• researches films and their storylines, background to directors and producers and any other interesting facts about the making of the movie
• meets newspapers / magazines deadlines
• makestelevision / radio appearances

Are you…?

• creative?
• passionate about films?
• able to work independently?
• a self-starter?
• a good writer?
• able to express yourself well?
• willing to work unusual hours?
• willing to watch both good and bad movies?

How do I become a Film Critic?

A degree or diploma in Film is recommended.

• SA FILM (News & Resources for SA Film Makers)

Alternatively, you could consider a degree in Journalism but you would also need courses in film studies.

• UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND

Bachelor of Arts: Dramatic Arts (BADA) with a specialisation in Film and television

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS:  Art Critic, Copywriter … or … Journalist

Is becoming a Film Critic the right career choice for me?