Personal Movie Criticism: Disagreements and Reliability

The relationship between movie critics and their audiences is often complex. While some individuals rely heavily on critics' opinions, others like myself find themselves more aligned with a 'see it for yourself' approach. Here, we delve into the factors that influence personal reactions to movie critiques, highlighting the importance of aligning with a critic's tastes and understanding their motives.

Ignoring Critics

Many believe that movie critics hold immense sway over their viewers, but my experience is that their opinions often don't align with mine. As a result, I seldom pay attention to their ratings. If the plot of a movie interests me, I'll make a decision based on personal preference or wait for it to be available on Redbox before watching.

The Influence of Critic's Quirks

Movies often engage with various themes, such as graphic violence or horror, which some critics may personally deplore. Therefore, if you share an affinity for such genres, it is wise to choose a critic who resonates with your ideals. Fortunately, there is a plethora of diverse film critiques catering to different tastes, including horror enthusiasts.

Similarly, critics may express their political or religious beliefs, which can affect their objectivity. When a film takes a clear stance on an issue that aligns with the critic's views, they are more likely to overlook its faults and appreciate the film more. This is a common human tendency, and it's crucial to be aware of it when selecting a critic whose opinion you trust.

Trusting a Critic

A good critic should detail the reasons behind their rating, providing a basis for critique. It is essential to evaluate whether these arguments are valid and if there is room for disagreement. Finding a critic with whom you align on specific milestone films increases the likelihood of trusting their future opinions.

Essential Qualities of a Relevant Reviewer

Two key elements determine the relevance of a movie critic to an individual:

Similar Tastes: A crucial aspect is that the critic has a taste in films that align with yours. I often refer to the movies a reviewer has previously discussed and compare them to films I've seen. If we have similar tastes, the chances are higher that I'll like a film they recommend.

Objective Descriptions: Good critics provide a balanced and objective assessment of the film, mentioning the film's strengths and weaknesses, as well as the type of audience that would appreciate it. For instance, if I love The Raid, I appreciate a reviewer who highlights its amazing action but mentions its lack of character development and subpar acting. They would suggest that someone who enjoys well-made action films might still enjoy it despite its thin storyline. Such a thorough evaluation helps viewers make informed decisions.

Concluding Thoughts

While movie critics can offer valuable insights, their opinions are subjective. Finding a critic whose tastes, motives, and evaluations align with yours can greatly enhance your movie-watching experience. In the end, personal preference often plays a significant role in determining the value of a film, and sometimes, the best advice is to trust your own instincts and decide for yourself.