Writing a film review

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 4,5

Writing a review

Review

A review gives an opinion about anything from a restaurant 

to a concert.

The most common types of review are film and book reviews, but people also review music, television programmes, theatre performances and computer games.

Review

Critics often write reviews for a living. They are knowledgeable on certain topics, eg films or music. We trust their judgement and may decide to read a book or watch a film because they persuade us to do so.

All reviews share a number of different purposes. 

A film review needs to:

• to inform - the review needs to tell people who is in the film, who it is by and where or when readers can see it.

A film review needs to:

• to inform - the review needs to tell people who is in the film, who it is by and where or when readers can see it.
• to describe - the review should describe the story, characters and some of the action - without spoiling the plot or giving too much away

A film review needs to:

• to inform - the review needs to tell people who is in the film, who it is by and where or when readers can see it.
• to describe - the review should describe the story, characters and some of the action - without spoiling the plot or giving too much away
  
• to entertain - to provide the reader with their opinion in a way that readers will enjoy, eg with a lively or witty tone

A film review needs to:

• to inform - the review needs to tell people who is in the film, who it is by and where or when readers can see it.
• to describe - the review should describe the story, characters and some of the action - without spoiling the plot or giving too much away
  
• to entertain - to provide the reader with their opinion in a way that readers will enjoy, eg with a lively or witty tone
  
• to analyse - a good review weighs up whether the film is good or not, giving opinions backed up with reasons and evidence

A film review needs to:

• to inform - the review needs to tell people who is in the film, who it is by and where or when readers can see it.
• to describe - the review should describe the story, characters and some of the action - without spoiling the plot or giving too much away
  
• to entertain - to provide the reader with their opinion in a way that readers will enjoy, eg with a lively or witty tone
  
• to analyse - a good review weighs up whether the film is good or not, giving opinions backed up with reasons and evidence
  
• to advise - the review should recommend to the reader whether or not they should go to see the film

Review

In short:

A review is a journalistic form, which combines objective information with subjective opinion. The element of opinion should involve analysis and evaluation, the journalistic form means it should be informative and entertaining.  

Review Format

1. Title

2. Introduction

3. Positive/negative aspect 1 -- body

4. Positive/negative aspect 2 -- body

6. Conclusion/Recommendation

    Approach:

- ‘address’ – lively, direct communication that will interest the audience. So it will most likely be semi-formal register, explaining things clearly and concisely, with some informality to convey personal tone & vivid comment/rhetoric.

    Approach:

- ‘angle’: the script has a clear overall point of view/attitude. Use adjectives to express your opinion.

    Approach:

- possible ideas to address: - good aspects/ bad aspects/ good and bad aspects, performance (of actors, for example)/ plot/ effects of….(seeing film, reading book).

    Approach:

- start your review with something that grabs the audience’s attention. rhethorical questions are always good!

- introduce the tv-programme. What is the essence? Remember, no spoilers!

    Approach:

- your review should have an argument: every good review focuses on why the reader should or not see the film or read the book. It also states what the review is going to be about.

    Approach:

- Use the present tense when writing a review. Eg. Bond appears softer….

    Approach:

- a review has a limited summary. The audience wants to know more about the plot and characters, but make sure you avoid ‘spoilers’.

   Example

In my opinion, 'Barbie' is an exceptionally delightful film for children, primarily due to its positive and inspiring portrayal of its main character. The reason I hold this view strongly is because Barbie, as a character, embodies qualities like optimism, determination, and kindness, which are crucial for young audiences to see. This is not just a simple character trait; it's a powerful message about the importance of perseverance and believing in oneself. For example, in the movie, Barbie faces challenges but she overcomes them with a positive attitude, teaching kids the value of resilience and self-confidence. Therefore, I firmly believe that 'Barbie' is more than just an entertaining film; it’s a source of valuable life lessons for its young viewers, making it an excellent choice for family viewing.

   Conclusion

Your summarize your main points and give a recommendation.