I LOVE "FOR THE LOVE OF MOVIES"

The history of film critique presents a timeline of the most important factors of the movie experience, the reaction of movie patrons. It is important to note the powerful influence of critics who interpret their movie experience, write their views and use the power of persuasion to influence the views of a potential movie goer. During this evolution, each decade brought change, conflict, technology advances and a continuous drive to keep up with current changes within the industry.

The history of a movie critic has a storyline of all elements found in the feature films we love, hate and criticize. From early 1900-present, it appears the career of a critic mirrors life itself. Just as a person progresses from infancy, adulthood and retirement, so is the evolution and decline of a movie critic. As the industry blossomed, each decade presented change. It became increasingly difficult for seasoned critics to view movies objectively. In some cases, they were viewed as “Being out of touch”, unable to keep up with current trends or technology. Many endure forced retirement at the hands of those whom once valued their reviews.

It appears as if when one critic rises, another critic’s opinions are no longer valued. There is no loyalty in this profession. Print media is virtually extinct. Many seasoned critics for the Washington Post, New York Times are fading to black as advances within technology allow movie industry executives to obtain mass public opinion responses to advertising and marketing strategies via blog, Facebook, Twitter or email.  This current review trend determines the success or failure of a movie. Harry Knowles changed the face of the film critic. He does not appear to look polished but his internet movie critiques changed the critic industry forever. His reviews became popular due to his ability to connect with other movie lovers. Movie Industry executives now seek information from the general consumer instead of the critic. It is certain as technology and innovation increase; this trend will become extinct as another trend evolves.

Although entertaining, the film did not focus on one theme. It became confusing to understand the tie that binds the movie together. The documentary cut to different topics in a matter of minutes. For example, Roger Ebert speaks about his movie experience, Stuart Klawans stating his change from writing fiction writer to film critic, Elvis Mitchell’s desire to be a critic because there were no black critics, the ongoing critique battles between Andrew Sarris and Pauline Kael, the decline of the movie critic profession. The movie was all over the place. It was difficult understand why it was titled “For the Love of Movies.”

The movie soundtrack for “For the Love of Movies” is reminiscent of the classic music presented during the golden age of film, 1950’s-1960. The music is upbeat and lighthearted. Although a portion of the movie is negative, the music brings the viewer to their “happy place.”

The real life “War of the Roses” existed among two critics with opposing viewpoints. The ongoing opposing comments of Andrew Sarris and Pauline Kael are a significant staple to movie critic history. Although they had opposing movie philosophies, they are best remembered as being forever joined to each other.

William Shakespeare wrote “To thine own self, be true.” We must interpret our truth through the movie experience. It is certain as movie critic evolution progresses, there is sunrise but there is a time when the sun also sets. Enjoy the time in the light. Enjoy the experience.