The field of film criticism isn’t a regulated one, and there is no universal process for how to become a film critic. Film critics may come to this profession from a wide assortment of academic and professional backgrounds. However, they are generally expected to have a bachelor’s degree.
If you’re still in high school and you’d like to get started on the process of how to be a film critic, it’s a good idea to talk to your guidance counselor about your career plans. You might also want to have a discussion about your options for full-time employment as a journalist, screenwriter or similar professional, given that many film critics publish their critiques on a part-time basis.
Your high school may not offer a cinema studies class, but do try to take as many humanities courses as possible.
Below are some examples of humanities courses that may help prepare you for a career in film criticism:
- History
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Creative writing
- English language or literature
You might also consider joining (or starting!) a film club and writing for the high school newspaper.
As you approach your high school graduation date, it’s time to start sorting through your degree options. One popular choice for aspiring film critics is a cinema studies or film degree, which will enable you to develop an in-depth understanding of how films are made, as well as how stories and characters are developed.
Other degree options depend on your thoughts on alternative employment. Because many freelance and part-time film critics are also full-time journalists, you may consider earning a journalism degree. On the other hand, if you would like to work entirely within the movie industry, you may prefer a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Film or similar degree.