The Language and Style of Film Criticism brings together a range of essays from international academics and film critics highlighting the achievements, complexities and potential of film criticism. Film criticism is a form of writing which evaluates film, and in recent years, in contrast to the theoretical, historical and cultural study of film, it has been relatively marginalised, especially within the academy. By revealing its quality and utility, the book shows that film criticism deserves a more central place within the academy, and can develop in dynamic ways outside it. What particular challenges does the medium of film present for writing and for critical judgement? How is the relationship between critic and film reflected in writing? How can vocabulary and syntax be used appropriately and imaginatively? A range of essays address these questions and more, focusing on the methods, concepts and ideas associated with the expression of film criticism. The book will be essential reading for all those engaged in the activity of writing about film - academics, students, and journalists - as well as readers of film criticism who wish to understand and appreciate its language and style.