Film Critics

Roger Ebert, a celebrated American film critic, was known for his distinctive writing style and critical perspective shaped by populism and humanism. He co-wrote the film "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls" and achieved widespread recognition for co-hosting televised film review shows with Gene Siskel, helping popularize the iconic phrase "two thumbs up." Ebert remained active in writing despite facing health challenges in the 2000s and left a lasting impact on the field of film criticism upon his passing in 2013.

Kurt Loder is a renowned American entertainment critic, author, columnist, and television personality with a significant impact on the industry. He gained a legendary reputation as an editor at Rolling Stone in the 1980s. Loder's influential work has been featured in publications such as Reason, Esquire, Details, New York, and Time. Additionally, he has made cameo appearances in various films and television series. Loder is best known for his contributions to MTV News since the 1980s and currently hosts the SiriusXM radio show True Stories, which he began in 2016.

Mark Kermode, a prominent English film critic, is recognized for his work across various BBC programs including Screenshot and Kermode & Mayo's Take. He has authored multiple books on film and music, contributed to publications like The Observer, and presented live shows at the British Film Institute. Kermode is a member of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts and a skilled musician in the skiffle band, the Dodge Brothers.

Scott Ritter is a former US Marine Corps intelligence officer and UN weapons inspector. He played a key role in overseeing the disarmament of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Ritter resigned from UNSCOM in protest and has since become a prominent critic of the Iraq War and US foreign policy in the Middle East. He has contributed to Russian state media outlets and supported Russia during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Ritter is a member of Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity and has encountered travel challenges with US authorities regarding visits to Russia.

Pauline Kael, a renowned American film critic, gained fame for her witty and sharply focused reviews at The New Yorker from 1968 to 1991. Her critiques, distinct from those of her contemporaries, set her apart as a standout figure in the world of film criticism. Kael's personal and unconventional approach to analyzing films earned her recognition as one of the most influential critics of her era, reshaping the landscape of film criticism and leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Rex Taylor Reed, an American film critic, journalist, and media personality, gained recognition for his career in New York City during the 1960s. Contributing to various newspapers and magazines, he focused on popular culture, art, and celebrities. Reed is well-known for his regular television appearances and occasional acting roles in films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. As a prominent writer for The New York Observer, he is acknowledged for his candid writing style, contrarian tastes, and occasional controversy stemming from factual inaccuracies and critical comments about actors.

Richard E. Roeper is a well-known American columnist and film critic, recognized for his contributions to the Chicago Sun-Times. He rose to fame as the co-host of the TV show At the Movies with Roger Ebert, continuing the legacy of Gene Siskel. Roeper also demonstrated his skills as a co-host on The Roe and Roeper Show on WLS-AM and as a host on Good Day Chicago on FOX 32. Over the years, he has become a highly regarded figure in the realms of film criticism and entertainment journalism.

John Irving Bloom, also known as Joe Bob Briggs, is a versatile American professional in the entertainment industry. He has achieved success as a syndicated film critic, writer, actor, comic performer, and horror host. Over the course of his extensive career, he is most prominently recognized for his hosting roles on popular television shows like Joe Bob's Drive-in Theater, MonsterVision, and The Last Drive-in with Joe Bob Briggs. His significant contributions to the horror genre have earned him prestigious awards and inductions into halls of fame.

Leonard Maltin is a highly respected American film critic, historian, and author known for his significant impact on the film industry. He rose to prominence with the widely praised Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide and his role as a film critic on Entertainment Tonight. Maltin's expertise encompasses teaching at USC School of Cinematic Arts, hosting the podcast Maltin on Movies, and leading the Los Angeles Film Critics Association as President. His diverse contributions include writing books on animation and film history, hosting specials, and providing insightful film commentary. Notable career achievements include the publication of his memoir and receiving esteemed accolades such as the Robert Osborne Award.

Barry Leslie Norman CBE was a notable figure in the British film industry, recognized for his roles as a film critic, television presenter, and journalist. He led the BBC's renowned cinema review program, Film..., for an impressive 26 years, spanning from 1972 to 1998. Norman's perceptive analysis, well-articulated reviews, and captivating on-screen persona established him as a highly regarded expert on films. Over his extensive and accomplished tenure, he emerged as a prominent and impactful figure in the realm of film critique and entertainment journalism.

Armond Allen White is a prominent American film and music critic acclaimed for his contributions to publications like National Review, Out, CityArts, New York Press, and The City Sun. Additionally, he has provided insights for Film Comment, Variety, The Nation, The New York Times, Slate, Columbia Journalism Review, and First Things. White's reviews are known for their controversial and contrarian nature, as he often offers unconventional perspectives in film critique. As a minority in various aspects of his profession – being African-American, gay, and conservative – he has garnered attention for his unique position within the industry.

Harry Jay Knowles, an American former film critic and writer, rose to fame through his website Ain't It Cool News (AICN). He was a respected member of the Austin Film Critics Association until he was removed in September 2017 following accusations of sexual assault. Knowles' work with AICN solidified his position as a notable figure in the realm of film criticism and reporting. Despite the controversies surrounding his exit from the association, his influence on film culture and discussions stands as a substantial aspect of his career legacy.

A. O. Scott is a distinguished American journalist and cultural critic, known for his insightful commentary on film and literature. He began his career at The New York Review of Books, Variety, and Slate before becoming a film critic for The New York Times in 2000. By 2004, he was appointed chief film critic, sharing the role with Manohla Dargis. In 2023, he made a transition to The New York Times Book Review, highlighting his broad expertise in critiquing different media forms.

John Henry Lahr is a highly regarded American theater critic and writer celebrated for his impactful contributions to the field. He held the position of senior drama critic and staff writer at The New Yorker from 1992 to 2013. With over twenty published books on theater, Lahr demonstrates his deep knowledge and love for the art form. Renowned as a leading biographer of our era, his work remains influential among audiences and scholars.

James Rufus Agee was a versatile American writer known for his accomplishments as a novelist, journalist, poet, screenwriter, and film critic. During the 1940s, he made a significant impact as a film critic for Time magazine. His posthumous acclaim came with the Pulitzer Prize-winning autobiographical novel "A Death in the Family." Agee was also recognized for his collaborative efforts on the book "Let Us Now Praise Famous Men" and for his contributions as a screenwriter for acclaimed films such as "The African Queen" and "The Night of the Hunter."

Kenneth Tynan was a celebrated English theatre critic and writer recognized for his significant contributions at The Observer, where he supported emerging British theatrical talent. In 1963, he assumed the role of literary manager for the newly established National Theatre Company. Tynan was a staunch critic of theatre censorship and made headlines by using the word "fuck" on British television in 1965. Later in his career, he moved to California and pursued his writing endeavors, leaving a lasting imprint on the realms of theatre and cultural criticism.

Wesley Morris is a highly regarded American film critic and podcast host, known for his extensive professional experience. He currently holds the position of critic-at-large at The New York Times and co-hosts the popular podcast Still Processing. Morris has also made notable contributions to The Boston Globe and Grantland. He is a distinguished Pulitzer Prize winner, having been honored with the award in both 2012 and 2021 for his exceptional work in criticism, particularly in the realm of race relations in the United States. Notably, Morris is the sole writer to have received the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism multiple times.

André Bazin, a prominent French film critic and theorist, is recognized for his influential work in the field of cinema. Beginning in 1943, he wrote extensively about film and played a key role in founding the esteemed film magazine Cahiers du cinéma in 1951. Bazin's contributions to film theory emphasized realism as the central purpose of cinema, highlighting objective reality, deep focus, and minimal montage. Setting himself apart from previous film theorists, Bazin believed in allowing viewers to interpret films for themselves, rather than focusing on the manipulative elements of cinema.

Peter Bradshaw is a well-known British writer and film critic recognized for his contributions at The Guardian and Esquire. As the chief film critic at The Guardian since 1999, he has become a highly regarded figure in the industry. His reviews and analyses are widely appreciated, attracting a large audience and impacting the film world. Bradshaw's expertise is further showcased through his role as a contributing editor at Esquire, highlighting his valuable contributions to the media.

Bosley Crowther Jr. was an influential American journalist, writer, and film critic known for his 27-year tenure at The New York Times. His critiques shaped the careers of actors, directors, and screenwriters, although some found them overly harsh. Crowther was a notable advocate for foreign-language cinema in the 1950s and 1960s, championing filmmakers like Roberto Rossellini, Vittorio De Sica, Ingmar Bergman, and Federico Fellini.

Lionel Trilling was a renowned American literary critic, short story writer, essayist, and teacher who made significant contributions to literary criticism in the 20th century. His work centered on analyzing the cultural, social, and political dimensions of literature, establishing him as a prominent figure in the field. As a member of the New York Intellectuals and a contributor to the Partisan Review, Trilling played a crucial role in shaping intellectual discourse and literary criticism throughout his career.

David Fricke is a well-known American music journalist recognized for his long-standing role as the senior editor at Rolling Stone magazine. Specializing in rock music, he has been a significant presence in the industry for more than 40 years. Fricke's tenure at Rolling Stone has seen him hold various positions, including music editor in the 1990s, before assuming his current role. His perceptive writing and vast expertise have firmly established him as a highly esteemed figure in rock journalism.

Vincent Canby was a highly regarded American film and theatre critic who worked at The New York Times. He was the chief film critic from 1969 to the early 1990s, reviewing over a thousand films during this time. Later, he transitioned to become the chief theatre critic at the same publication from 1994 until his passing in 2000. Throughout his career, Canby's reviews and critiques were known for their insight and had a significant impact on the film and theatre industries, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in arts criticism.

Mark Van Doren was a highly respected American poet, writer, and critic, known for his influential career as a scholar and professor of English at Columbia University for almost four decades. He inspired a generation of writers and thinkers, such as Thomas Merton, Robert Lax, John Berryman, Whittaker Chambers, Allen Ginsberg, and Jack Kerouac. Van Doren's professional achievements included being the literary editor of The Nation, writing critical studies on prominent figures like Shakespeare and Nathaniel Hawthorne, and winning the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1940. His lasting impact on Columbia University's literary community is evident through prestigious teaching awards named in his honor.

James Berardinelli is a well-known American film critic whose reviews can be found on his blog ReelViews. He is an approved critic on Rotten Tomatoes and has published two collections of movie reviews on DVD and video. Additionally, Berardinelli is a fantasy novelist with a trilogy titled The Last Whisper of the Gods released between 2015 and 2016. His various professional endeavors showcase his enthusiasm for film criticism and creative writing in the fantasy genre.

Jonathan Rosenbaum, a prominent American film critic and author, gained recognition for his tenure as head film critic at The Chicago Reader from 1987 to 2008. He has written and edited numerous books on cinema and his work has been showcased in prestigious film publications including Cahiers du cinéma and Film Comment. Renowned French New Wave director Jean-Luc Godard has praised Rosenbaum as one of the top film critics in the United States, likening him to legendary figures such as James Agee and André Bazin.

Andrew Sarris was a prominent American film critic who popularized the auteur theory of film criticism. He emphasized the role of directors as the main creative influence in movies, influencing how audiences and critics perceive cinema. Sarris's writing and reviews elevated the reputation of specific filmmakers and significantly contributed to the field of film criticism, shaping how movies are understood and valued.

Nathan Irving Hentoff was a respected American historian, novelist, jazz, and country music critic, as well as a syndicated columnist. He was well-known for his contributions to The Village Voice and later became a senior fellow at the Cato Institute while continuing to write for The Wall Street Journal. Hentoff was a prominent advocate for press freedom and was highly regarded for his insights on First Amendment issues. His influence extended to various publications such as Down Beat, JazzTimes, The Washington Post, and The New Yorker, leaving a lasting legacy in journalism and music criticism.

Marc Fennell is a well-known Australian technology journalist, television presenter, radio personality, and author. He is recognized for his role as the co-anchor of The Feed and currently hosts several popular programs. As of November 2023, Marc hosts Mastermind on TV, Stuff the British Stole on both radio and TV platforms, and Download This Show on radio. With a wide range of media roles, Marc Fennell captivates audiences with his expertise and engaging style across various platforms.

Renata Adler is a celebrated American author, journalist, and film critic known for her prolific career. She was a staff writer-reporter for The New Yorker for over three decades and served as chief film critic for The New York Times in 1968-1969. Adler has written numerous fiction and non-fiction books, demonstrating her varied literary skills. She has received prestigious awards including the O. Henry Prize, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and the PEN/Hemingway Award for her contributions to the field.

Suzy Menkes is a distinguished British journalist and fashion critic acclaimed for her valuable contributions to the industry. She has occupied influential editorial roles at prestigious publications including the International Herald Tribune and Vogue International. Menkes is recognized for her incisive analysis of fashion trends and industry advancements. With a wealth of experience in fashion journalism, she has been instrumental in influencing the global fashion scene through her work at esteemed publications.

Joel Siegel, a renowned American film critic, gained fame for his role on the ABC morning news program Good Morning America for more than 25 years. Alongside his television success, he was honored with numerous Emmy Awards, acknowledging his outstanding skills and impact on the realm of film criticism. Siegel's diverse talents shone through his work as a radio disc jockey and his achievements as an advertising copywriter, highlighting his deep passion for the media and entertainment industry.

Dwight Macdonald was a notable American writer, critic, philosopher, and activist recognized for his significant contributions to various publications in New York. He played a crucial role as a member of the New York Intellectuals and led as the editor of Partisan Review for six years. Macdonald's work extended to respected outlets such as Time, The New Yorker, The New York Review of Books, and he established the journal Politics in 1944. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a strong dedication to leftist principles and showcased his sharp intellect through his writings.

Richard Nelson Corliss was an influential American film critic and magazine editor known for his focus on movies. He served as the editor-in-chief of Film Comment and authored books such as Talking Pictures, which helped shift attention to the role of screenwriters in filmmaking. Corliss's work drew early recognition to the importance of screenwriters alongside directors in the film industry. Through his writing and editorial contributions, he made significant contributions to film criticism and analysis during his career.

Kenneth Turan, a respected American retired film critic, author, and lecturer, spent nearly three decades as a film critic for the Los Angeles Times, from 1991 to 2020. Known for his expertise and insights, Turan was considered one of the most influential film critics in the industry, earning recognition as a prominent figure in the world of film criticism.

Charles Davenport Champlin was an influential American film critic and writer known for his contributions to the field of film criticism. He served as the lead film critic for the Los Angeles Times for over two decades, where he gained recognition for his insightful reviews and thoughtful analysis of cinema. Champlin's work helped shape the landscape of film criticism, and his writing was highly regarded by both industry professionals and audiences alike. He was a respected voice in the world of film journalism.

Penelope Gilliatt was a highly accomplished figure in the arts and entertainment world, known for her versatility as a novelist, short story writer, screenwriter, and film critic. She gained prominence as a respected film critic for The New Yorker magazine in the 1960s and 1970s, celebrated for her detailed reviews and vivid descriptions. Gilliatt showcased her talent across various mediums, including short stories, novels, non-fiction works, and screenplays. Her exceptional writing abilities were acknowledged with an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay for Sunday Bloody Sunday (1971).

Benjamin D. Brantley is a prominent figure in American theater criticism, journalism, editing, publishing, and writing. He held the position of chief theater critic at The New York Times for over two decades, from 1996 to 2020. Throughout his career, Brantley has contributed significantly to the field of theater criticism, shaping the conversation around theatrical performances and influencing the opinions of audiences and industry professionals alike with his insightful reviews and commentary.

Alfred Kerr, a prominent German theatre critic, gained renown for his insightful analyses and critiques of the cultural landscape. Known as the Kulturpapst ("Culture Pope"), he wielded significant influence through his writings. Kerr's work was characterized by a sharp intellect and a deep understanding of the arts, making him a respected figure in the world of theater criticism. His contributions helped shape the cultural discourse of his time and left a lasting impact on the field.

Stanley Kauffmann was a prominent American writer, editor, and critic known for his insightful commentary on film and theater. With a career spanning several decades, he established himself as a respected voice in the industry. Kauffmann's analyses were characterized by their depth and thoughtfulness, offering unique perspectives on various works of cinema and stage productions. Through his writing and editing roles, he contributed significantly to the discourse surrounding the arts, influencing both audiences and aspiring creatives alike.

Isidore Isou was a versatile artist renowned for his work in poetry, drama, novels, film directing, economics, and visual arts. He was the founder of the Lettrism movement, influenced by Dada and Surrealism, establishing himself as a significant figure in the avant-garde scene of the mid-20th Century. His influential 1951 film "Traité de Bave et d'Eternité" transformed cinema, and his political writings foreshadowed the May 1968 movements. Isou's varied professional pursuits and innovative artistic and literary methods cemented his legacy in the realms of creativity and activism.

Tom Shales was a prominent American writer and television critic known for his work at The Washington Post from 1977 to 2010. During his tenure, he was awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 1988, highlighting his exceptional talent and insight in analyzing television content. Shales also contributed to the television news trade publication NewsPro, published by Crain Communications, further solidifying his reputation as a respected voice in the industry for his insightful critiques and commentary on television programming.

Philip Neville French, an esteemed English film critic and radio producer, began his journalistic career in the late 1950s. He transitioned to become a BBC Radio producer and later excelled as a film critic. French joined The Observer in 1963, where he offered regular insightful criticism until his retirement in 2013. He was recognized for his contributions and honored as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in December 2012. French's legacy endures as an influential figure who has inspired a new generation of film critics.

Béla Balázs, a Hungarian figure, was celebrated for his contributions to film criticism, aesthetics, writing, and poetry. He championed formalist film theory, stressing the significance of artistic form and structure in cinema. Balázs played a crucial role in shaping the perception and recognition of film as an art form. His work influenced the evolution of film theory and criticism, leaving a lasting impression on the cinematic world.

Ignatiy Igorevich Vishnevetsky is a well-known Russian-American film critic, essayist, and columnist who has made significant contributions to the film industry through his work with The A.V. Club, Mubi.com, and the Chicago Reader. He co-hosted the popular film criticism television show Roger Ebert Presents: At the Movies alongside Christy Lemire. Vishnevetsky is recognized for his insightful critiques and analysis of various films, earning him a dedicated following and establishing him as a prominent figure in the field of film criticism.

Kyle Smith is an American critic, columnist, and novelist known for his contributions to various publications. He currently holds the positions of film critic for The Wall Street Journal and theater critic for The New Criterion. Previously, he served as critic-at-large for National Review, film critic and columnist for the New York Post, and contributor to a wide range of publications including People, New York, Forbes, The New York Times, and Commentary. Smith has built a reputation for his insightful critiques and analysis across multiple media platforms.

Ennio Flaiano was a versatile Italian professional renowned for his work as a screenwriter, playwright, novelist, journalist, and drama critic. His collaboration with Federico Fellini significantly influenced Italian cinema, co-writing ten screenplays with the acclaimed director. Flaiano's notable contributions include the critically acclaimed films La Strada (1954), La Dolce Vita (1960), and 8½ (1963), establishing him as a prominent figure in the Italian entertainment industry.

LiLiCo is a prominent Japanese TV personality and film critic of Swedish descent who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. Known for her captivating presence and insightful critiques, she has become a familiar face to audiences in Japan. Her stage name, LiLiCo, is synonymous with her talent and charisma, earning her a loyal following. With a successful career spanning various media platforms, she continues to make a significant impact through her work in television and film.

Brendan Gill was a prolific American journalist with a career spanning over 60 years at The New Yorker. He was a versatile writer, contributing film criticism for Film Comment, discussing design and architecture for Architectural Digest, and authoring fifteen books. Notably, he chronicled his experiences at The New Yorker magazine in a popular book. Gill's insightful commentary across various subjects solidified his reputation as a respected and influential figure in journalism and literature.

Ernest William Callenbach was a renowned American author, film critic, and editor celebrated for championing simple living. His notable work includes the influential utopian novel Ecotopia, published in 1975. Throughout his career, Callenbach showed a strong dedication to environmental and societal causes, evident in his writing and editorial endeavors. His impactful contributions to literature and advocacy for sustainable living continue to inspire readers and thinkers envisioning a more eco-conscious future.

Judith Crist was a trailblazing American film critic and academic, known for breaking barriers as one of the first full-time female critics at a major American newspaper, The New York Herald Tribune. She also made significant contributions as the founding film critic at New York magazine, gaining national acclaim for her work at TV Guide and the Today show. Crist authored multiple books on film and television, displaying her deep expertise and enthusiasm for the industry. Her impact even extended to a cameo appearance in Woody Allen's film Stardust Memories.

Carlo Lizzani was a distinguished figure in the Italian film industry, acclaimed for his roles as a director, screenwriter, and critic. He made substantial contributions to cinema with his innovative storytelling and exploration of intricate themes and social issues. Lizzani's films garnered recognition both in Italy and globally, solidifying his legacy in the industry. Throughout his extensive career, he left a lasting impression on Italian cinema, inspiring filmmakers and audiences with his diverse and impactful body of work.

Dilys Powell, a distinguished British film critic and travel writer, made significant contributions to The Sunday Times for more than five decades. She was widely respected for her keen insights into cinema and her ability to adapt to changing cultural trends, often creating memorable phrases about films and actors. Powell also played a crucial role in the development of commercial television in the UK as a founding member of the Independent Television Authority. Her influence reached into academia, where she served as the second female president of the Classical Association and authored works on films and Greek travel.

James Evershed Agate was an influential English diarist and theatre critic renowned for his contributions in the period between the two world wars. Initiating his journalism career with The Manchester Guardian in his late twenties, he went on to establish himself as a respected drama critic for prominent publications like The Saturday Review, The Sunday Times, and the BBC. Agate's extensive diaries and letters offer valuable insights into the British theatre scene of his era, alongside showcasing his wide-ranging interests in sports, social gossip, and personal reflections. Additionally, he authored novels, translated plays, and regularly released collections of theatre essays and reviews.

John Russell Taylor is a renowned English critic and author known for his insightful analyses of British theatre, biographies of iconic film personalities like Alfred Hitchcock, Alec Guinness, Orson Welles, Vivien Leigh, and Ingrid Bergman. His significant works also include the acclaimed book "Strangers in Paradise: The Hollywood Emigres 1933–1950" and several publications on art. Taylor's substantial impact on the realms of theatre, film, and art has solidified his reputation as a highly regarded and influential figure in the realm of criticism and literature.

Cedric Henning Belfrage was a multifaceted individual known for his work in journalism, activism, and intelligence. He co-founded the National Guardian, a radical US weekly publication, and made a significant impact in the field of journalism. While initially implicated as a Soviet agent in the US intelligence Venona project, it was later uncovered that he had actually been working as a double agent for the British Security Co-ordination. Belfrage's professional life was marked by his varied roles and his legacy remains complex and controversial.

Jay Scott was a prominent Canadian film critic who made a significant impact on the world of cinema through his insightful reviews and analysis. Known for his sharp wit and deep knowledge of the industry, he gained a wide readership and established himself as a respected voice in film criticism. His work was characterized by a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of film theory, and a passionate dedication to the art of cinema. Scott's reviews were influential in shaping public opinion and sparking discussions within the film community.

John Robert Whiting was a versatile figure in the English arts scene, known for his contributions as an actor, dramatist, and critic. He made a significant impact in the world of theater with thought-provoking plays and insightful critiques. Whiting's work showcased his talent for storytelling and keen understanding of human nature. His professional life was marked by dedication to the arts and commitment to creating meaningful and impactful works that resonated with audiences and critics alike.

Robert Kjaerby Jensen is a well-known Dutch broadcaster who has left a lasting impact on both television and radio. He first gained fame as the host of the RTL 5 chat show Jensen! in the 2000s, captivating audiences with his engaging style. Prior to this, he hosted his own radio show on Radio 3 in the 1990s, showcasing his versatile talents and establishing himself in the broadcasting industry. Jensen's career highlights include successful ventures in both television and radio, where he has showcased his skill and passion for broadcasting.

Okamoto Kidō was a prominent Japanese author and playwright known for his significant contributions to literature. His best-known work, the Shin Kabuki play Bancho Sarayashiki, showcased his exceptional storytelling skills and creativity. Throughout his career, he established himself as a respected figure in the literary world, captivating audiences with his works. Hailing from the district of Shiba Takanawa in Tokyo, Okamoto Kidō left a lasting legacy through his impactful writings and theatrical productions that continue to be celebrated and studied.

John Mason Brown was a renowned American drama critic and author celebrated for his perceptive reviews and commentary on theater. He started his career as a critic in the early 1920s and swiftly earned acclaim for his eloquent writing and deep insight into the theatrical realm. Brown's influential reviews played a key role in shaping public perceptions of plays and performances. Over the course of his professional journey, he became a highly regarded figure in theater criticism, making a lasting impression on the industry.

Charles Marowitz was an influential American critic, theatre director, and playwright known for his collaborations with Peter Brook at the Royal Shakespeare Company. He founded and directed The Open Space Theatre in London and co-founded Encore magazine. Marowitz was a regular contributor to various publications and served as the lead critic for the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner. He authored works such as "Murdering Marlowe" and "Sherlock's Last Case," as well as free adaptations of Shakespeare in "The Marowitz Shakespeare." His career was highlighted by his impactful contributions to theatre and criticism until his passing in 2014.

Devyani Chaubal was a prominent Indian journalist and columnist known for her work in the 1960s and 1970s. She gained recognition for her "Frankly Speaking" column in Star and Style magazine, where she coined the term "superstar" for Rajesh Khanna. Chaubal was a pioneer in introducing gossip and accusations to Indian film journalism, previously free of such elements. She maintained credibility through well-researched content and was one of the first to incorporate Hinglish into her writing. Despite facing health challenges, she continued writing until her passing in 1995.

Peter Travers is a well-known American film critic recognized for his reviews and commentary on movies. As the chief film critic for Rolling Stone magazine, Travers has gained acclaim for his insightful and engaging critiques of both mainstream and independent films. His reviews are noted for their accessibility and sharp observations, helping audiences navigate the world of cinema. Travers’ impact on film criticism is marked by his extensive knowledge of film history and his influential voice in shaping public opinion on movies.