1. Mr Wilson English Language arts LMAC
Writing a Movie Review
Mr Wilson
English Language arts
LMAC

2. The Basic Elements?
So what did we notice last week when we went over the Movie Reviews?
Intro & Context – director, writer, background info…etc.
Condensed Plot Synopsis – enough to make it interesting, without giving it away!
Character Evaluation – what is our focus?
Casting Choices – why did they get the part?
Analysis & Critique – arguments about specific parts of the film…Think back…
Final Evaluation – what is your recommendation? = Must include everything mentioned above!

3. The Bottom Line?
There are good and bad reviews: what makes a Review good or bad?
Too cheesy
Gives away too much
Elicits interest
FOCUSED – does not try to do too much. Keep it simple!
Funny
Short and to the point
Back-story
Makes you look forward to seeing it!

4. Review vs. Essay What makes a Review different than an Essay?
Title – it should grab your attention, and have a Sub-title which tells me what your focus will be.
Sentence Fragments & Questions – anything that gives your Review some spice is acceptable.
Run-on Sentences – this is ok in article writing! IF it adds to your style.
Shorter Paragraphs – not often, but they can be useful. (1 to 5 sentences Max)
Allusions, Similes and Metaphors – work great!
First Person – use it! But not EVERYWHERE.

5. GOOD WRITING IS GOOD WRITING.
Review vs. Essay
How are they the same?
Focus – it still needs to have a central idea or a thesis holding everything together (i.e.: your evaluation!)
Connections – by the end, meaning when I read your evaluation, everything needs to connect.
Grammar – it still has to be grammatically correct.
Style – everyone has a writing style: sarcasm, dry humour, makes Allusions, etc. What is yours?
Research – good writers are well-read, and it shows in their writing. Go onto the internet and read read read!
GOOD WRITING IS GOOD WRITING.

6. Where do You Start?
Rotten Tomatoes – The Mecca of all Movie Review sites: The Hour – I gave you two examples in class: The Mirror – Another great independent newspaper: The Gazette – More boring, but they have a great site:

7. Now Get Crackin’