Movie Critic vs. Movie Reviewer: What's the difference? | Pulse Nigeria
Ever watched a movie and thought, “That was amazing!” - only to read a review that completely trashes it? Or maybe you read a glowing review but found yourself snoozing halfway through the film? So, what’s the difference between a critic and a reviewer? Are they the same thing? Should you trust one over the other? Let’s break it down!
Movie Reviewer
A movie reviewer is like a friend who always knows what’s new in the cinemas or on Netflix. Their job is to tell you what a movie is about and help you decide whether it’s worth your time and money.
- Casual and personal - They share their opinion and experience watching the film.
- Focus on entertainment value - Is it fun? Boring? A waste of time?
- Quick and easy to read - They don’t explore deep film theories.
Usually working for blogs, entertainment websites, YouTube, or social media, a reviewer gives you a vibe check on whether you’ll enjoy a movie based on their tastes.
Movie Critic
A movie critic, on the other hand, doesn’t just say if a movie is good or bad, they analyze it. They dig into the filmmaking techniques, the storytelling, and the deeper meaning behind the scenes.
- Analytical and structured - They break down a film’s cinematography, script, acting, and direction.
- Focus on artistic and technical elements - Not just “fun or not,” but “Was this film well-made?”
- More depth, less personal opinion - They discuss themes, symbolism, and influences.
Critics, usually writing for newspapers, film magazines, academic journals, or professional sites like Rotten Tomatoes, help you see things you might have missed in a movie.
