- knowledge of English language
- the ability to critically analyse information
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- excellent written communication skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- persistence and determination
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- watching films of all genres, often several times
- making notes about scripts, music, storylines and influences
- looking at technical details like camera angles, lighting and editing
- submitting reviews by strict deadlines
- building up contacts with film-makers, agents and distributors
- attending film festivals, talks, previews and press conferences
- interviewing film-makers, actors and production staff
- researching archival information about films and film-makers
- keeping up to date with critical theories
You could work at events, at a venue, from home or in an office.
As an established film critic, you could combine your job with writing books on film, editing, or teaching criticism on film courses. You could also work in film archives.
You can find out more about creative industry careers from Discover Creative Careers and ScreenSkills.
You can find more general information about working and training in journalism from the National Union of Journalists and National Council for the Training of Journalists.
