How to become a film critic
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- short training courses
University
You can do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate qualification in:
- film studies
- journalism
- English
- creative writing
- film and television
Courses like these will help you to develop the analysis and writing skills you'll need as a film critic.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you'll need for this job. Relevant courses include:
- A level Film Studies
- Level 3 Diploma in Journalism
Entry requirements
You'll need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English
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Apprenticeship
You can work towards this role by starting with a higher apprenticeship like a junior journalist or a senior journalist, before specialising in film reviewing and criticism.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Competition for jobs is strong, and you'll need to show you've got writing experience. You'll find it useful to keep examples of your published work in a portfolio.
To develop your experience and reputation you can:
- write for student and local newspapers
- create your own blog and build an online presence on social media
- submit articles to online film review channels and websites
- post video reviews online and produce podcasts
Other Routes
You may be able to do short courses, which could help you to develop your critical writing skills, as well as expand your knowledge of film and different genres.
Short courses are offered by some colleges, adult education centres, university film departments. and film organisations online. Courses include:
- film criticism
- history of cinema
- creative writing
- journalism skills
- cinema from other countries
It’s important to develop your own critical writing style and build up a good reputation to establish yourself as a film critic.
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Career tips
You’re likely to be self-employed or work freelance as a film critic, especially when starting out, and be paid per review. Some critics write about other media, for example TV, plays and books, to supplement their income.
Further information
You can find out more about creative industry careers from Discover Creative Careers and ScreenSkills .
You can find more general information about working and training in journalism from the National Union of Journalists and National Council for the Training of Journalists.