How to be a film critic with Dave Calhoun

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How to be a film critic with Dave Calhoun

By The Guardian Masterclasses

Date and time

Saturday, May 2, 2015 · 10am - 4pm GMT+1

Location

The Guardian

Kings Place 90 York Way London N1 9GU United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Contact the organizer to request a refund.

Description

Hone your critical approach to film and how you communicate your ideas to others in this practical introduction to film criticism

You might know your Scorsese from your Spielberg, but it takes more than an encyclopaedic knowledge of film to make a critic. In this intensive one-day course, Time Out film editor Dave Calhoun shows you how to translate your knowledge into informative, engaging and even occasionally infuriating reviews. With practical activities to set your critical mind whirring, you'll learn how to communicate to different audiences and in different formats, including print, online, radio and television.

Participants will receive a short viewing list of films to fuel the day's discussions and there will be an optional film review assignment to complete after the class, with individual feedback provided. The day will also include an in-depth Q&A session with a guest speaker, who will share advice on how to write memorable articles and reviews. Whether you're just starting out or looking to hone the skills you have, you'll leave with greater confidence and a clearer understanding of the secrets behind great film reviews.

This course is for you if…

  • You're a journalist who wants to branch out into, or specialise in, film criticism
  • You're an aspiring film critic currently writing for a blog, or simply for your own pleasure
  • You're a hardcore cinema buff who wants to learn to express your passion to an audience

Course description

Two respected critical voices offer a fully-rounded education in the key skills of the film reviewer. Mixing group discussions, practical exercises, Q&As and expert tuition, the course covers how to establish a personal style and employ critical thinking, as well as advice on writing skills and how to break into the trade. Topics covered on the day include:

  • Finding your style
  • The essential components of a great review
  • Writing for an audience
  • The film industry: what (and who) you need to know to succeed
  • Extensive Q&A with a guest speaker

Tutor profile

Dave Calhoun is global film editor at Time Out. He has written on film for the Guardian, The Observer, The Times, Sight & Sound and other publications. Dave regularly broadcasts on Sky TV and BBC Radio and TV, and hosts film events at cinemas across London. He was previously deputy editor of Dazed & Confused magazine.

Guest speaker profile

Guy Lodge is a Johannesburg-born journalist and screenwriter, and graduate of the London Film School. He is currently the chief UK film critic for Variety, and the home entertainment columnist for The Observer. His work also appears in Time Out, The Guardian, The Economist, Empire and Heat.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website

Organized by

Welcome to Guardian Masterclasses – a unique programme of learning embedded within one of the world's most forward-thinking media organisations.

We offer a broad range of short and long courses across a variety of disciplines from creative writing, journalism, photography and design, film and digital media, music and cultural appreciation.

Harnessing the expertise and specialisms within the organisation, our courses are led by first class and award winning guardian professionals whilst also drawing on the skills and expertise of other leading figures at the forefront of the creative and digital industries.

The programme is aimed at anyone interested in personal or professional development whether that be refining your skills, focusing your ambition or simply broadening your mind and gaining inspiration.

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