A movie is a visual storytelling medium that uses moving images, sound, and often music to convey a narrative and engage audiences emotionally and intellectually. It’s typically divided into genres such as drama, comedy, horror, and sci-fi, each with its own conventions and audience expectations. A movie is a form of entertainment that appeals to a wide range of audiences and may address important social or political issues.
Taking notes while watching a movie is an effective way to help you analyze it. Write down the key points of the story as it unfolds, as well as any other details that stand out. For example, if a costume or set design catches your attention, consider how it contributes to the overall tone of the film. Then, return to these elements when writing your review.
The most memorable movies are those that stay with you long after the credits roll. The best movies make you think, make you laugh, or even make you cry. They are often a reflection of the time in which they were made, and they reflect the zeitgeist in which they are released. Some of these films, like “Citizen Kane” and “Apocalypse Now,” are cultural touchstones that are still widely discussed decades after their release.
Creating a film that will linger in the memory of viewers is a challenge for many filmmakers. To do so, they must find ways to connect with audiences on a personal level. They must also craft a plot that is compelling and unique. Often, the success of a movie depends on the strength of the acting performances. The ability of actors to portray characters with depth and emotion has a major impact on the viewer’s experience of the film.
One of the earliest movies to achieve this was “Shoeshine,” an eye-opening depiction of poverty in early 20th century Italy. Then came De Sica’s “Los Olvidados” and Bunuel’s “Pixote.” Brazil’s Hector Babenco tapped into the public’s outrage against government corruption with his harrowing documentary-style realism in “City of God,” which also pushed the limits of state censorship.
The era of the blockbuster has brought with it an unprecedented proliferation of movies and a corresponding decline in critical acclaim for most of them. It’s easy to fall into the trap of judging a movie solely by its commercial success, but this approach can lead to a shallow analysis. If you want to understand what makes a movie great, watch it with a critical eye and ask yourself what the director was trying to accomplish. You might be surprised at the answers you find.