Quick Take

For decades, the backbone of film criticism has been the hatchet job -- the entertaining trashing of a film by professional reviewers, seen by many as cynical snobs. But with the arrival of the internet, have the critics finally fallen under the axe? With movie posters now just as likely to be adorned by Twitter quotes as fusty reviewer recommendations, has the rise of enthusiastic amateurism sounded the death knell of a profession? Are the democratic opportunities of the internet any more reliable than the old gripes and prejudices of the establishment? Can editing really be done by robots? And what kind of films would we have if we listened to what the audience thinks it wants? Starting with the celebrated TV fight between film-maker Ken Russell and critic Alexander Walker (the former hit the latter with a rolled-up copy of his Evening Standard review on live television) and ending with his own admission to Steven Spielberg of a major error of judgement, Mark Kermode takes us on a journey across the modern cinematic landscape. Like its predecessor, The Good, The Bad and The Multiplex, Hatchet Job blends historical analysis with trenchant opinion, bitter personal prejudices, autobiographical diversions and anecdotes, and laugh-out-loud acerbic humour. It's the perfect book for anyone who's ever expressed an opinion about a movie.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Hatchet Job: Love Movies, Hate Critics

Introduction

"Hatchet Job: Love Movies, Hate Critics" by Mark Kermode is a book that delves into the world of film criticism, exploring the history, evolution, and future of the profession in an age where anyone can express their opinions on the internet. Kermode, a renowned film critic and broadcaster, takes readers on a journey through the modern cinematic landscape, examining the role of critics, the rise of amateurism, and the impact of technology on the industry. With his signature blend of historical analysis, trenchant opinions, and acerbic humor, Kermode offers a unique perspective on the art of film criticism and its place in the digital age.

About Mark Kermode

Mark Kermode is a British film critic, broadcaster, and author. He is best known for his weekly film review podcast "Kermode and Mayo's Film Review," which he co-hosts with Simon Mayo on BBC Radio 5 Live. Kermode has been a prominent figure in the film criticism scene for over two decades, earning a reputation for his passionate and insightful reviews. He has also written several books, including "The Good, The Bad and The Multiplex" and "Hatchet Job: Love Movies, Hate Critics." Kermode's writing style is characterized by his witty and engaging approach to film criticism, making him a beloved figure among cinephiles and casual movie enthusiasts alike.

Analysis of Views

Embracing the Future: Kermode defends the profession of film criticism in an era where anyone can express their opinions online. He argues that while the rise of amateurism may have sounded the death knell of traditional criticism, it has also opened up new opportunities for filmmakers to connect with audiences. Kermode believes that professional critics can still provide valuable insights and analysis, especially when done well.
The Value of Professional Critics: Kermode emphasizes the importance of having trained professionals in the field of film criticism. He argues that these critics bring a level of expertise and knowledge to their reviews that cannot be replicated by amateurs. Professional critics have access to resources and training that allow them to provide in-depth analysis and context to their reviews.
The Impact of Technology: Kermode explores how technology has changed the landscape of film criticism. With the rise of social media and online platforms, film reviews have become more accessible and democratic. However, Kermode also highlights the potential pitfalls of this new era, such as the influence of clickbait headlines and the proliferation of low-quality reviews driven by monetary incentives.
The Role of Audience Feedback: Kermode examines the role of audience feedback in shaping the film industry. He argues that while audience opinions can be valuable, they should not be the sole determinant of a film's success or failure. Professional critics bring a level of expertise and critical analysis that can complement audience feedback and provide a more nuanced understanding of a film's merits.
The Limitations of Amateurism: Kermode acknowledges the limitations of amateur film criticism. While it may be well-intentioned and passionate, amateur reviews often lack the depth and nuance that come with professional training. Amateurs may also be influenced by personal biases or external factors that can affect their judgment.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Writing Style: Kermode's writing style is one of the main reasons why readers recommend this book. His witty and engaging approach to film criticism makes reading about movies both enjoyable and informative. Kermode's ability to blend historical analysis with personal anecdotes adds depth to his arguments and keeps readers engaged throughout the book.
Valuable Insights: Readers appreciate Kermode's insights into the world of film criticism and its evolution in the digital age. The book provides valuable insights into the role of critics, the impact of technology on the industry, and the value of professional versus amateur reviews. These insights make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the art and business of film criticism.
Entertaining Anecdotes: Kermode's book is not just about serious analysis; it also includes many entertaining anecdotes that add humor and personality to his writing. These anecdotes provide readers with a glimpse into Kermode's personal experiences as a film critic, making his insights more relatable and engaging.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Structure: Some readers feel that the book lacks a clear structure or thesis statement. While it covers interesting topics related to film criticism, some readers feel that it meanders at times and fails to maintain a consistent focus throughout the book. This lack of structure can make it challenging for readers to follow along or fully engage with the arguments presented.
Repetitive Content: A few readers point out that some parts of the book feel repetitive or redundant. While Kermode's passion for films is evident throughout the book, some readers feel that he repeats certain points or digresses into tangents that do not directly relate to the main topic. This repetitive content can detract from the overall reading experience for some readers.

Conclusion

"Hatchet Job: Love Movies, Hate Critics" by Mark Kermode offers a thought-provoking exploration of film criticism in an era where anyone can express their opinions online. With his engaging writing style, valuable insights, and entertaining anecdotes, Kermode provides readers with a unique perspective on the art and business of film criticism. While some readers may find the lack of structure or repetitive content challenging, overall, this book is recommended for anyone interested in understanding the role of film critics in shaping our cinematic experiences.