Roger Ebert was a cultural icon and one of the most influential film critics. For decades, he was the film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times, where his insightful and accessible writing earned him a household name. In 1975, Ebert became the first film critic to win a Pulitzer Prize for Criticism, cementing the importance of the field. His influence extended beyond print, as he was a pioneer in bringing film discussion to television, most famously with his partner Gene Siskel.

What Are Film Critics and Publications? A Guide for Movie Lovers

Q: What is a Film Critic?

A film critic is a professional who watches movies and then writes or speaks about their opinions, analysis, and overall assessment of the film. Their goal isn't just to say "good" or "bad," but to dive deep into various elements. They serve several key functions: - Guiding Audiences: Helping you make informed viewing choices. - Sparking Discussion: Encouraging dialogue about themes, performances, and filmmaking techniques. - Providing Context: Placing a film within a broader cinematic history. - Influencing the Industry: Impacting a film's box office success and award season chances.

Film critics are professionals who analyze, interpret, and evaluate movies based on their artistic and technical merit. Film publications are the media outlets, such as websites, magazines, and newspapers, that publish these reviews and critiques. Together, they guide audience choices and contribute to the broader cultural discussion about cinema.

Ever finished a fantastic (or fantastically terrible) movie, TV show, or anime and immediately wondered, “What did everyone else think?” You’re not alone. With new entertainment flooding our screens daily, navigating the vast sea of content can feel like a quest without a map. This is where a special kind of guide comes in: the film critic. More than just people with opinions, they are seasoned navigators who help us understand, appreciate, and even avoid certain cinematic experiences, making our choices easier and more informed.

But who exactly are these arbiters of taste, and what power do their words truly hold? From the iconic “thumbs up” and “thumbs down” era of legends like Roger Ebert on Siskel and Ebert to today’s digital voices shaping popular opinion, film critics have played a pivotal role in how we discuss cinema. Publications that host their insightful analysis, including classic ebert reviews, help guide our viewing choices. This comprehensive guide aims to pull back the curtain on this fascinating world, exploring everything from their qualifications to their impact.

Whether you’re a casual moviegoer seeking reliable recommendations or a cinephile eager for deeper analysis, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll journey through the history of film criticism, examine the enduring legacy of Roger Ebert reviews, delve into the rise of modern critics like Jeremy Jahns on YouTube, and explore the most trusted sources for ratings and insights. So, grab your popcorn, because it’s time to learn all about the dedicated individuals and institutions that help us make sense of the magic on screen.

What is a Film Critic? Everything You Need to Know

The Role and Impact of a Movie Critic

Ever wondered who helps us decide what to watch next? That is the job of a film critic, a professional who analyzes movies and shares their opinions. Their goal goes beyond simply labeling a film “good” or “bad.” Instead, they dive deep into its various elements to provide a comprehensive assessment.

What makes a film critic so important? They serve several key functions for both movie enthusiasts and the industry:

Guiding Audiences: Critics help you make informed viewing choices, steering you toward hidden gems or warning you about potential disappointments.
Sparking Discussion: Great criticism makes you think, encouraging dialogue about themes, performances, and filmmaking techniques.
Providing Context: A critic often places a film within a broader cinematic history, comparing it to similar works or highlighting its unique contributions.
Influencing the Industry: Critics can impact a film’s box office success and award season chances. Positive buzz from respected voices can significantly boost a movie’s profile. In fact, academic research confirms that critics can shape audience perceptions and box office performance ^[1].

The role has evolved dramatically. While past icons like Roger Ebert and the duo Siskel and Ebert held immense sway with their “Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down” verdicts, this tradition continues in new forms. Today, voices like Jeremy Jahns on YouTube bring fresh perspectives to a global audience, showing that film critics remain essential in helping us appreciate the vast world of movies.

Understanding film publications: From Print to Digital

Where can you find these insightful reviews? For a long time, film criticism lived primarily in print publications like major newspapers and dedicated film magazines. These traditional film publications played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and celebrating cinematic art.

Many of the most respected voices in criticism built their reputations in print. For example, critics like Peter Travers (formerly of *Rolling Stone*), Owen Gleiberman (*Variety*), and Mick LaSalle (*San Francisco Chronicle*) became known for their consistent, thoughtful reviews. Similarly, in the UK, Mark Kermode rose to prominence as a leading voice, known for his incisive Mark Kermode film review columns and the popular Mark Kermode and Simon Mayo Film Review radio show.

However, the digital age has transformed this landscape, making film criticism more accessible than ever. This shift has brought several exciting changes:

Online Blogs and Websites: In addition to traditional publications moving online, countless independent blogs and websites, such as IWatchMovies Blog, now offer fresh takes on movies, TV shows, anime, and manga.
Social Media and Video Platforms: Critics now engage directly with audiences on platforms like Twitter and YouTube. Here, YouTube critics such as Jeremy Jahns have cultivated massive followings by creating a more interactive and immediate form of review.
Review Aggregators: Websites like Metacritic Movies and Rotten Tomatoes gather reviews from many sources to provide an average score. This gives you a quick overview of a film’s reception, alongside detailed analyses from outlets like the Guardian film reviews.

As a result, film criticism is no longer confined to a few channels but is now a vibrant, diverse ecosystem. This evolution means you have more options than ever to find engaging and knowledgeable opinions about your favorite visual entertainment.

The Legends: A Deep Dive into Siskel and Ebert

Who was Roger Ebert?

When people talk about film critics, one name always rises to the top: Roger Ebert. He wasn’t just a critic; he was a cultural icon. Born in 1942, Ebert became a household name thanks to his insightful and engaging movie reviews.

For decades, Ebert served as the film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times. His writing was both academic and deeply personal, making film criticism accessible to everyone, not just cinephiles. His passion for cinema shone through in every review.

In 1975, Ebert achieved a monumental feat, becoming the first film critic to win a Pulitzer Prize for Criticism ^[2]. This honor cemented his place in journalistic history and proved the cultural importance of film criticism.

His influence also extended far beyond print. As a pioneer of televised film discussion, Ebert changed how millions of people watched and thought about movies.

The Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down Legacy

The names Siskel and Ebert are synonymous with a simple yet powerful system: the iconic Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down rating. This approach revolutionized how audiences consumed film criticism.

The system first appeared on their show “Sneak Previews” and later gained massive popularity on “Siskel & Ebert & The Movies.” The concept was simple:

A “Thumbs Up” meant a recommendation to see the movie.
A “Thumbs Down” was a warning that the film wasn’t worth your time or money.

This straightforward rating had a profound impact. It made film criticism instantly understandable, allowing anyone to quickly grasp a critic’s overall opinion. It cut through complex cinematic discussions for a general audience.

The on-screen dynamic between Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert was electric, and their debates became legendary. These passionate discussions clarified their viewpoints and drew in millions of viewers each week, many of whom relied on the duo for their weekend movie plans. The “Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down” system became more than a rating; it was a cultural shorthand.

What happened to Siskel and Ebert?

The partnership between Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert was special. For over two decades, they were the leading voices in film criticism, captivating audiences with on-screen chemistry marked by friendly jabs and genuine passion. However, their incredible run eventually came to an end.

Tragically, Gene Siskel passed away in 1999 from complications following brain tumor surgery ^[3]. His death left a huge void in the world of film criticism. Roger Ebert continued the show, first with guest critics and later with Richard Roeper as his permanent co-host.

Ebert himself faced significant health challenges, battling various forms of cancer for years. Beginning with thyroid cancer in 2002, subsequent surgeries led to the removal of his lower jaw, leaving him unable to speak. Despite this, Ebert’s passion for film never wavered.

He continued to write prolific movie reviews, using technology to communicate his thoughts. His dedication was an inspiration, proving that a critical voice could transcend physical limitations. Sadly, Roger Ebert passed away in 2013 at the age of 70 ^[4].

The legacy of Siskel and Ebert lives on. They paved the way for modern film critics and demonstrated the power of accessible, engaging film discussion. They proved that criticism could be both intelligent and incredibly popular.

The New Wave: Modern Film Critics

Is Jeremy Jahns a good reviewer?

When discussing modern film criticism, the name Jeremy Jahns often comes up. He’s a prominent figure in the “new wave” of movie critics. But is he a “good” reviewer?

Jahns rose to fame on YouTube with a distinct review style that is energetic, fast-paced, and conversational. This direct approach makes his content highly accessible to a broad audience.

Many viewers find his reviews entertaining and relatable, largely because he injects humor and personal opinions. Furthermore, his signature rating system—often simplified to “Awesome,” “Meh,” or “Awful”—is easy to grasp, contrasting sharply with the more elaborate scales of traditional critics.

However, some critics point to a perceived lack of deep analytical insight in his work. His reviews tend to focus on immediate reactions, prioritizing entertainment value over technical craft or thematic depth. As a result, his style may not satisfy cinephiles who seek profound discussions of film theory.

Ultimately, whether Jeremy Jahns is a “good” reviewer depends on what you seek in criticism. For quick, entertaining, and relatable takes on new movies, he’s a fantastic choice. His channel boasts millions of subscribers, a testament to the huge appetite for his style ^[5]. However, if you prefer academic discourse or intricate critiques, you might look elsewhere. He certainly serves a crucial segment of today’s movie-going public.

The Rise of the YouTube Film Critic

The landscape of film criticism has undergone a massive transformation, moving beyond the established voices of the past, such as legendary figures like Roger Ebert or the influential duo Siskel and Ebert. The internet, and YouTube in particular, has democratized the field by empowering a new generation of critics.

This shift began as digital media became widespread and viewers started seeking more diverse opinions than traditional print or television could offer. YouTube filled this gap by providing an immediate, visual platform that connected creators directly with their audience.

Several factors contributed to this meteoric rise:

Accessibility: YouTube critics are often perceived as more approachable because they use less formal language than their traditional counterparts.
Visual Engagement: Since film is a visual medium, seeing a critic on screen reacting and using clips can be more engaging for a digital-native audience.
Diverse Voices: The low barrier to entry allows for a vast range of perspectives, including critics who specialize in specific genres like horror or anime.
Direct Interaction: Viewers can comment, like, and share instantly, which fosters a community around a critic’s channel and allows for direct engagement.
Timeliness: YouTube critics can often post reviews almost immediately after a movie’s release, satisfying a craving for instant analysis.

This “new wave” has changed how people discover and think about movies, supplementing rather than replacing traditional criticism. For instance, many film enthusiasts now check YouTube for multiple viewpoints in addition to reading reviews from publications like Variety (Owen Gleiberman) or listening to critics like Mark Kermode. With millions of active users worldwide ^[6], YouTube’s massive reach ensures its critics have a significant impact.

While YouTube critics bring fresh energy, the platform is not without its challenges. Credibility can be an issue, as some creators prioritize virality over substance. However, many have developed robust, well-respected channels that offer valuable insights and a genuine passion for cinema. They are an undeniable force in today’s film discussion.

Who is the most trusted movie critic? A Look at Today’s Top Voices

Peter Travers (Formerly of Rolling Stone)

When we talk about influential movie critics of the modern era, Peter Travers certainly comes to mind. For decades, his energetic and accessible reviews graced the pages of Rolling Stone, becoming a go-to source for music and pop culture enthusiasts alike.

Travers built a reputation for his punchy prose and an ability to distill complex film ideas into engaging, easy-to-digest critiques. Many found his enthusiastic style infectious, and his frequent television appearances made him a recognizable face among film critic circles [source: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0871148/bio/].

Rather than simply summarizing plots, his reviews focused on a film’s emotional impact and cultural relevance. This approach helped bridge the gap between academic criticism and mainstream audience appeal, continuing the tradition of highly visible critics like Roger Ebert who connected with a broad public.

Owen Gleiberman (Variety)

Owen Gleiberman is another titan of film critic journalism. As a chief film critic for Variety, he brings a deep intellectual rigor to his analyses, with a keen eye for both the artistry and the industry impact of cinema.

Known for their thoughtful reflection, Gleiberman’s reviews often delve into a film’s social and psychological underpinnings. His elegant and analytical prose makes his work a staple for readers seeking a more academic perspective on new releases [source: https://variety.com/author/owen-gleiberman/].

Before joining Variety, Gleiberman spent many years honing his craft at Entertainment Weekly. This diverse experience allows him to comment on a vast range of genres, from indie darlings to blockbuster spectacles, with consistently sharp insights. His perspective also adds significant weight to the aggregator scores on sites like Metacritic Movies.

Mick LaSalle (San Francisco Chronicle)

Mick LaSalle, the primary film critic for the San Francisco Chronicle, is a trusted voice for readers on the West Coast and beyond. He is known for offering a unique blend of historical context and incisive contemporary critique.

LaSalle is particularly regarded for his deep knowledge of classic Hollywood cinema, often drawing fascinating parallels between past and present films. This historical lens enriches his reviews by providing readers with a broader understanding of cinematic evolution.

His direct and engaging writing style avoids unnecessary jargon, focusing instead on performances, directorial choices, and the emotional truth of a film. This approach makes his reviews both informative and deeply personal. LaSalle has also authored several books on film history [source: https://micklasalle.com/about-mick-lasalle/], solidifying his status as an expert.

Mark Kermode (The Observer)

In the United Kingdom, few film critics command as much respect and affection as Mark Kermode. While he is the chief film critic for The Observer, he is perhaps best known for his incredibly popular radio show, Mark Kermode and Simon Mayo’s Film Review [source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00lvdrj].

Kermode’s reviews are characterized by passionate, articulate, and often delightfully vehement opinions. He doesn’t shy away from expressing strong love or profound dislike for a film, which makes his critiques incredibly entertaining. His deep knowledge of film history and genuine enthusiasm for the art form are always evident.

His broadcasting presence has given him a wide reach, with fans eagerly awaiting his “witticisms and rants.” Valued for their honesty and depth, Kermode’s insights stand out because his personality shines through in every word. This charismatic approach has made him a beloved figure among movie critics globally.

What is the most reliable source for movie ratings?

How Metacritic Movies Scores Work

Metacritic Movies is a review aggregation website that clarifies how combined movie scores are calculated. It works by gathering reviews from a wide array of respected critics and then calculating a single, weighted average score for each film.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Review Collection: Metacritic pulls reviews from top publications, including newspapers, magazines, and prominent online sources.
Score Conversion: Each review, regardless of its original format (e.g., stars, letter grades), is converted into a numerical score from 0 to 100.
Weighted Average: Not all critics or publications are weighted equally. Metacritic assigns different “importance” to various sources ^[7], meaning a review from a highly influential critic can affect the final score more.
Metascore Calculation: All converted and weighted scores are averaged to produce the final Metascore—a single number representing the overall critical reception.
Color Coding: For a quick visual guide, the Metascore is color-coded:
- Green (61-100): Generally favorable reviews.
- Yellow (41-60): Mixed or average reviews.
- Red (0-40): Generally unfavorable reviews.

In short, the Metascore provides a quick snapshot of the critical consensus, making it a powerful tool for discovering new films or deciding what to watch.

In-depth Analysis: Guardian Film Reviews

For thorough and thoughtful analysis, Guardian Film Reviews are an excellent choice. As a renowned UK publication, The Guardian offers insightful critiques where critics dive deep into a film’s themes, performances, and directorial choices.

What makes their reviews stand out?

Respected Voices: Critics like Peter Bradshaw provide articulate and witty perspectives that are well-known for their depth ^[8].
Detailed Analysis: Guardian reviews go beyond a simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down. They explore the nuances of filmmaking, giving readers a rich understanding of a movie’s artistic merits and flaws.
Cultural Context: Their reviews often place films within broader cultural or historical contexts, adding another layer of meaning for the audience.
Engaging Prose: The writing is consistently high-quality, which makes the reviews a pleasure to read, even for films you haven’t seen.

While aggregators provide a number, a Guardian review offers a comprehensive argument, helping you understand why a film is considered good or bad. This level of analysis is invaluable for true movie enthusiasts.

Comparing Major Review Aggregators

Choosing the most reliable source for movie ratings depends on what you’re looking for. Several major aggregators exist, each with its own method and focus. To help you decide, let’s compare some of the most popular options.

Understanding their key differences—for example, whether they use a weighted average or a simple fresh/rotten score—helps you pick the best tool for your needs.

Aggregator	Primary Scoring Method	Key Features	Best For
Metacritic Movies	Weighted average of critic scores (0-100).	Includes a “Must-See” distinction. Weights scores based on a critic’s influence. Offers detailed lists of individual critic scores.	Getting a nuanced critical consensus and understanding disagreements among critics.
Rotten Tomatoes	“Tomatometer” percentage of positive (“Fresh”) reviews.	Simple “Fresh” or “Rotten” verdict. “Certified Fresh” for well-reviewed films. Features an “Audience Score” separate from the critic score.	Quickly seeing if critics generally like a film and comparing critic vs. audience scores ^[9].
IMDb (Internet Movie Database)	User-generated average rating (1-10 stars).	Massive database of film information. Ratings are from a large volume of general users. Includes cast, crew, trivia, and user reviews.	Gauging popular opinion and finding comprehensive details about a film ^[10].

Metacritic is often the top choice for film critic enthusiasts seeking a deep dive into professional opinions. Rotten Tomatoes offers a quick “go/no-go” signal, while IMDb, in contrast, reflects the general public’s opinion. Many movie lovers check all three for a complete picture before settling on their next watch.

What is the qualification to become a film critic?

Essential Skills for Aspiring Critics

Becoming a film critic is about more than just enjoying movies—it requires a specific blend of skill and a deep passion for the craft. So, what sets a great movie critic apart? Let’s explore the essential skills.

Deep Film Knowledge: A strong critic understands film history, from different genres and directorial styles to specific filmmaking techniques. This knowledge goes beyond casual viewing and requires dedicated study.
Analytical Eye: You must be able to dissect a film, looking beyond the surface plot to analyze how elements like acting, directing, cinematography, and script work together to create the final piece.
Strong Writing Skills: Clear and engaging writing is paramount. Your reviews must effectively convey your insights in a way that captivates readers.
A Unique Voice: Develop your own distinct perspective. What makes your analysis different? Think of legendary critics like Roger Ebert; his voice was instantly recognizable.
Observational Prowess: Pay attention to small details, as they often reveal deeper meanings. A keen eye for observation will help you catch what others might miss.
Effective Communication: For video critics, verbal clarity is vital. Consider the engaging delivery of a popular YouTube film critic like Jeremy Jahns.

These skills form a solid foundation, but continuous learning is crucial in the ever-evolving world of cinema.

Building Your Portfolio

Once you’ve honed your critical skills, it’s time to get your voice heard. Building a strong portfolio is the essential next step to showcase your unique perspective.

Start Your Own Platform: Create a personal blog or a dedicated social media channel to maintain full creative control. Look to established film blogs for inspiration.
Watch and Write Consistently: Sharpen your analytical and writing abilities by regularly reviewing a wide range of films, from big blockbusters to independent gems.
Seek Constructive Feedback: Share your work with trusted friends or mentors. Honest input is a gift that helps you identify areas for growth.
Network with Other Enthusiasts: Connect with fellow aspiring critics online and offline. Attending film festivals can open doors and build valuable relationships.
Develop a Niche: Focusing on specific genres, directors, or themes can help you stand out. This allows you to dive deeper into subjects you are passionate about.

Getting Published and Gaining Exposure

Once your portfolio starts to grow, look for opportunities to share your work and build an audience.

Contribute to Online Publications: Pitch your review ideas to websites seeking new voices. This is a great way to gain exposure.
Explore Guest Posting: Offer to write for established film blogs to expand your audience and add credibility to your portfolio.
Target Local Media: Check for opportunities in community newspapers or magazines, which often welcome new talent.
Create a YouTube Channel: If you prefer video, starting a channel can be an incredibly engaging way to present your reviews. Many successful YouTube film critics began this way.
Utilize Social Media: Use platforms like X (formerly Twitter) or Letterboxd to share concise movie thoughts and engage with the film community.

Persistence is crucial in this field. Continue to hone your skills and share your passion for film, and your dream of becoming a respected film critic will be within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions About Film Critics and Publications

What was Roger Ebert’s favorite movie?

While fans often wonder about his favorite film, Roger Ebert famously resisted naming just one. Instead, he preferred to discuss films that profoundly impacted him or that he considered undeniable masterpieces.

Ebert viewed cinema as a vast, ever-growing canon of great works. This philosophy is reflected in his personal list of “Great Movies,” which he continually updated with everything from silent classics to modern blockbusters. As a result, pinpointing a single favorite is nearly impossible.

However, a few key films consistently appeared on his lists and earned his highest praise in Ebert reviews. These often included:

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Citizen Kane (1941)
La Dolce Vita (1960)
Casablanca (1942)
The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)

Ebert frequently highlighted the emotional resonance and artistic brilliance of these titles. He believed that a truly great film wasn’t just entertainment; it was a source of profound insight and lasting impact ^[11].

Which movie review site is the best?

The “best” movie review site depends entirely on your personal needs, as each platform offers unique features and perspectives. Since there’s no single right answer, let’s look at what makes the top contenders stand out:

Rotten Tomatoes: This popular aggregator compiles reviews from numerous critics to generate a “Tomatometer” score alongside an audience score. It’s excellent for quickly gauging the overall critical consensus.
Metacritic Movies: Similar to Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic also aggregates critic scores. However, it provides a more nuanced “Metascore” by using a weighted average, giving more significance to certain critics. It also includes a user score.
IMDb (Internet Movie Database): More than just a review aggregator, IMDb is a massive database where users rate and discuss films. It is an essential resource for information on cast, crew, and trivia, as well as general public opinion.
Traditional Publications (e.g., Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, The Guardian, The New York Times): These publications feature in-depth reviews from established critics like Owen Gleiberman (Variety). For those seeking thoughtful analysis, sources like Guardian film reviews are an excellent choice.
IWatchMovies Blog: Of course, for engaging and approachable content on movies, TV shows, anime, and manga, you’re already in the right place! We strive to offer balanced and insightful perspectives for every type of viewer.

Ultimately, the best site is the one that aligns with your preferences. Whether you want a quick score, a detailed analysis, or an audience consensus, it’s wise to consult several sources before choosing a film.

Who is the biggest movie critic today?

Identifying the single “biggest” movie critic is harder today than it was in the era of Siskel and Ebert, whose televised debates made them household names. In the modern media landscape, influence is spread across various platforms, from traditional print and online journalism to popular YouTube channels.

However, several critics hold significant sway:

Mark Kermode: A highly respected British critic, Mark Kermode is known for his BBC Radio 5 Live show, “Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review.” His detailed analysis and passionate opinions have earned him a massive following, and his Mark Kermode film review segments are highly influential.
Jeremy Jahns: As a prominent YouTube film critic with millions of subscribers, Jeremy Jahns exemplifies the rise of the modern “digital critic.” Known for his energetic and humorous reviews, he makes film criticism accessible to a younger, digital-first audience.
Peter Travers: Formerly of Rolling Stone, Peter Travers is a long-standing and highly recognized voice in American film criticism. His reviews have carried considerable weight for decades, and he remains an influential figure.
Owen Gleiberman: As a chief film critic for Variety, Gleiberman’s work is read by both Hollywood insiders and serious film enthusiasts, making his reviews highly influential within the industry.
Mick LaSalle: The veteran critic for the San Francisco Chronicle, LaSalle offers a distinctive and often provocative voice. His work is well-regarded for its sharp insights and historical perspective.

The concept of “biggest” now encompasses a combination of reach, critical respect, and the ability to connect with diverse audiences—a blend of traditional authority and modern digital engagement.

Do film critics make a lot of money?

For the majority of film critics, the short answer is no—it is not a high-paying profession. A critic’s income varies wildly depending on their platform, experience, and public profile.

For aspiring critics, the work is often a labor of love. Many start by writing for little or no pay to build a portfolio, and even established critics at smaller publications may earn a modest salary.

However, there are exceptions at the top tier:

Top-Tier Critics: Those at major publications like The New York Times or Variety, or successful broadcast critics (like Siskel and Ebert were), can command respectable salaries. However, these positions are extremely competitive.
YouTube Film Critics: Personalities like Jeremy Jahns can earn significant income through ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise. Their earnings are more comparable to those of content creators than traditional journalists.
Freelancers: Many critics work as freelancers, getting paid per article. This creates an income that can fluctuate significantly based on assignments and rates.

Passion for film, rather than the promise of wealth, is what drives most people into this profession. While exact figures are hard to pinpoint, the median salary for critics is often lower than what many expect for a “dream job” ^[12]. Consequently, long-term success in the field often requires diversifying income through books, podcasts, or speaking engagements.