A movie is a motion picture, a film, or simply an entertainment piece that tells a story on screen. It’s not only meant to entertain but can also be a medium for social commentary, a way of exploring historical events, or even to express one’s own artistic vision. In film history, many movies have become iconic, gaining lasting popularity, becoming firm audience favourites and earning critical acclaim for their ability to inspire, scare, amuse, or touch audiences in ways that are uniquely and wholly their own.

A good movie review should include a basic summary of the plot, including any twists or turns in the narrative that could have surprised viewers. It should also discuss the overall theme or message of the movie, as well as how it makes the viewer feel. Including these basic elements will ensure that the review is accessible to readers who may not have seen the movie themselves.

Movies often feature complex plots and a range of characters that must be developed and portrayed convincingly in order to make the story come alive on screen. For this reason, it’s important to consider the writing techniques used in a movie when reviewing it. Was the dialogue believable and compelling? Did the script capture any key moments or feelings?

Cinematography is another aspect of a movie that can be explored in a film review. This includes the use of lighting, camera work, and framing to create a visual style and support the narrative. The use of different perspectives can also be considered, as can the use of specific colors to create a mood or atmosphere.

Filmmaking is a creative art, and there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to what makes a movie “the best”. However, for most people, a film that offers heartwarming comfort, iconic scares, big laughs, or pulse-pounding suspense will likely be at the top of their list.

Other factors that can be taken into account when determining the best films include how influential they have been, how they advance or innovate in the industry, or how they capture and reflect history in a unique and profound way. For example, Ang Lee’s evocative adaptation of Annie Proulx’s short story Brokeback Mountain — a tale of two ranchers who love each other and the landscape that surrounds them — captured hearts and minds around the world with its lyrical depiction of grief and hope. It went on to win a slew of Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.