Opinions On Media

The grading system works by sorting a movie into five criteria, each with a possible 10 points.  I feel this system allows for much more accurate summaries of the qualities in movies that we all look for.  Each category is independent and there is no total score.  I know when I’m getting ready to watch a movie my choice is heavily dependent on my immediate mood.  I feel this system breaks things down into the basic gratifications we want from a movie; technique, production quality, story though provocativeness, and entertainment.

Technique: This includes the acting and direction of the film.  The skill in portrayal of characters and choices of visual presentation will be the main factors.

Production Quality: This includes cinematography, art design, set construction, special effects, costume and makeup. High scoring films will involve new and creative camera techniques and stylistic choices.  Because I will be grading older films as well as new releases, grading will be based on time of release.

Story: This relates to the story and character development.  It judges the film based on the plot while as much as possible separating it from the acting, directing and production quality.

Thought Provoking: This is the ability of a movie to present new questions that leave us thinking after the credits finish.  The more the movie forces us to think about issues, the higher the score.

Entertainment: This is the ability of film to suspend disbelief and captivate us within itself for the few hours we take part in it.