06/07/2024
I've noticed that film critics often go to great lengths to call out filmmakers who respond to or challenge their reviews, attempting to shame them. This behaviour is not ennobling and ironically makes critics appear more oversensitive than the aggrieved filmmakers themselves. Considering the immense effort required to produce a film, even a 'terrible' one, which can take months or even years, the disparity in the effort it takes to write a review—often just a day—is stark.
In today's climate, dominated by negative clickbait and the race to be louder and more insulting than the next critic, many critics seem to be abandoning their academic credentials and respect for filmmakers. Given this environment, I believe filmmakers should be more outspoken.
It's surprising how many critics lose their composure over a filmmaker challenging their review, especially when the critic's work can easily dismiss the filmmaker's efforts, and that of their colleagues, for cheap clicks. This reflection comes after witnessing a critic today rallying his supporters to mock a filmmaker who was defending their work against a review that called it "unwatchable," "atrocious," and the "worst film ever." The film in question was just a low-budget, cheesy indie. But, of course, who would read a review today without such hyperbole?
In this dynamic, a few key issues stand out:
The Effort of Filmmaking vs. Reviewing: Filmmaking is a labour-intensive process requiring significant time and dedication from many individuals. Conversely, writing a review, even a critical one, requires much less time and effort, making filmmakers understandably sensitive to harsh criticism.
Critics' Reactions to Filmmaker Responses: The strong reactions from some critics to filmmakers defending their work can suggest a fragile ego or a need to assert authority. This behaviour appears unprofessional and undermines the critic's credibility.
Clickbait Culture: The current media environment rewards hyperbolic and sensational content, driving traffic and engagement. Consequently, reviews may prioritise attention-grabbing negativity over balanced, thoughtful critique, diminishing the perceived value of criticism as an art form and professional practice.
Respect and Dialogue: Criticism should ideally be constructive and rooted in genuine engagement with the work. Respectful dialogue between critics and filmmakers can enhance understanding and improve the quality of both films and reviews. Critics mocking filmmakers closes off this possibility and reduces the discourse to unproductive exchanges.
The Role of Critics: Critics play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and guiding audiences. This role comes with the responsibility to maintain integrity and fairness. Prioritising clicks over responsible critique can erode trust in the critic's judgment.
While filmmakers should be open to criticism, critics must maintain professionalism and respect for the creative process. Constructive feedback, even when negative, should aim to contribute to the discourse and support the growth of the film industry, rather than simply tearing down someone's hard work for attention.
