Writing an Analytical Film Essay

The subject matter of a film is the material that directly or indirectly comprises the film, whereas the meaning of a film is the interpretation of that material. Good writing about film demonstrates a balance between one’s subjective opinions and a more critical objectivity that provides facts and evidence to support an evaluation.

Knowing or anticipating the identity of your readers is central to writing about film. Four questions that will help you gear your essay to certain readers are:

  1. How familiar are your readers with the films being discussed?
  2. What is your readers’ level of interest in the film?
  3. What do your readers know about the film’s historical and cultural contexts?
  4. How familiar are your readers with the terminology of film criticism or theory?

Two common forms of film writing are film reviews and analytical essays.

Film reviews are short essays aimed at a general audience that has likely not yet seen the film. Reviews provide plot and background information and pronounce a clear evaluation of the film.

Analytical essays, distinguished by their intended audiences and their levels of critical language, typically focus on particular themes in a film, providing interpretations of the material and offering careful analyses to demonstrate those interpretations.