Film Review Guideline/Structure



Directing/Cinematography/Editing = 22 Possible Points

[list][*]Does the director handle the material effectively? Do you recognize any techniques that are especially sophisticated? 4.5 [*]Was the film?s pace slow? Is there any excess fat? Are all scenes necessary and help structure the story? 4 [*]Is tone and atmosphere clearly established? 3.5 [*]Is the film visually appealing? 3 [*]Does the Score evoke emotion or interest when necessary? Is it used effectively and appropriately? Do sound effects positively contribute? 2.5 [*]Is the set and set/design appealing and convincing? Do special effects positively contribute? Do they appear realistic? Are they used sparingly? 1.5 [*]Is the costume and costume design generally effective in creating a mood? Are they convincing and appropriate? 1.5 [*]Are lighting, contrast, and color contributed positively? 1.5 [/list]


Acting = 21 Points Possible

[list][*]Are the main actor(s) convincing? Do they portray the characters well? 7 [*]Are the supporting actor(s) convincing? Do they portray the characters well? 7 [*]Do they fulfill or go beyond your expectations? Are they miscast? 7 [/list]


Story/Screenplay = 20 Points Possible

[list][*]Does the story flow smoothly enough? Is it convincing and/or imaginative enough? It adapted, how well does it translate? 4.5 [*]Is the story intelligent (not simple) if it needs to be? 4 [*]How is the dialogue? Is it forced? Is it appropriate? Could it be improved? 3.5 [*]Has it been done before? How original and genuine is it? 3 [*]Is there a definite sense of narrative? Does a lot need to be explained? 2.5 [*]How is the ending? Does it tie things up nicely? Does it need to? Is it well-developed? 2.5 [/list]


Enjoyment = 37 points

1. Consider the genre of the film, does it meet and/or surpass the standards that the genre typically demands? 8.5
2. Did it provoke emotion? How emotionally provoking was it? 8
3. Was it though-provoking? 7.5
4. Was it entertaining? 7
5. Was it worth the money? 6




Total = 100



Five Star System

20 points = *

30 points = * ½

40 points = **

50 points = ** ½

60 points = ***

70 points = *** ½

80 points = ****

90 points = **** ½

100 points = *****





Grade Scale

80-100 = A Two Thumps Up

60-79 = B Thumbs Up

40-59 = C

21-39 = D

20 or below = F



Tomatometer = Above 59 = FRESH