Film critic
Film critics analyse films and produce reviews and articles for newspapers, magazines, radio, TV, social media channels and websites.
Also known as: Film reviewer, movie critic, film writer
What you'll do
As a film critic, you could:
- watch films of all genres, often several times
- make notes about scripts, music, storylines and influences
- look at technical details like camera angles, lighting and editing style
- submit reviews by deadlines
- build up contacts with film-makers, agents and distributors
- attend film festivals, talks, previews and press conferences
- interview film-makers, actors and production staff in person and online
- research information about films and film-makers
- keep up to date with critical theories
Working environment
You could work at events, at a venue, from home or in an office.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of English language
- the ability to critically analyse information
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- excellent written communication skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a film critic
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- short training courses
University
You can do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate qualification in:
- film studies
- journalism
- English
- creative writing
- film and television
Courses like these will help you to develop the analysis and writing skills you'll need as a film critic.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you'll need for this job.
Useful courses include film studies and journalism.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Apprenticeship
You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship, with a media organisation, like:
- Junior Journalist Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
- Journalist Level 6 (non-degree) Apprenticeship
You might choose to specialise in reviewing films during your apprenticeship training.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Volunteering
Competition for jobs is strong, and you'll need to show you've got writing experience. You'll find it useful to keep examples of your published work in a portfolio.
To develop your experience and reputation you can:
- write for student and local newspapers
- create your own blog and build an online presence on social media
- attend film previews and film festivals and write about them
- submit articles to online film review channels and websites
- post video reviews online and produce podcasts
Other routes
You may be able to do short courses, which could help you to develop your critical writing skills, as well as expand your knowledge of film and different genres.
Short courses are offered by some colleges, adult education centres, university film departments and film organisations online.
Courses include:
- film criticism
- history of cinema
- creative writing
- journalism skills
- cinema from other countries
It's important to develop your own critical writing style and build up a good reputation to establish yourself as a film critic.
Career path and progression
As an established film critic, you could combine your job with writing books on film, copy editing, or teaching criticism on film courses. You could also work in film archives.
Career tips
You're likely to be self-employed or work freelance as a film critic, especially when starting out, and be paid per review. Some critics also write about other media, for example TV, plays and books, to supplement their income.
Guides for this industry
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