Famous British Film Critics

Peter Bradshaw is a prominent British writer and film critic known for his work at The Guardian and Esquire. Serving as chief film critic at The Guardian since 1999, he has established himself as a respected voice in the world of film criticism. Bradshaw's insightful reviews and contributions have garnered a wide readership and cemented his reputation as an authoritative figure in the industry. Additionally, his role as a contributing editor at Esquire further highlights his influence and expertise in the field of cinema.

Mark Kermode is a versatile English film critic, musician, radio and television presenter, author, and podcaster. He co-presents the BBC Radio 4 program Screenshot and the film-review podcast Kermode & Mayo's Take with Simon Mayo. Kermode has authored numerous books on film and music and written for publications like The Observer. He is a regular contributor to the BFI's film magazine and has presented live shows at the British Film Institute. Kermode has also co-presented various BBC programs and documentary series, showcasing his expertise in cinema and music.

Kenneth Peacock Tynan was a prominent English theatre critic and writer known for his influential contributions to the theatrical world. He gained recognition for his work at The Observer, where he played a key role in promoting emerging British theatrical talent. Tynan later became the literary manager for the National Theatre Company, advocating against theatre censorship. He made history by uttering a controversial word on live television, showcasing his bold and unconventional approach. Tynan's career extended to California, where he continued to pursue his writing endeavors.

Barry Norman CBE was a prominent British film critic, television presenter, and journalist known for his work on the BBC's cinema review programme, Film..., which he hosted from 1972 to 1998. With his insightful commentary and engaging presentation style, Norman became a respected authority on the film industry, offering thoughtful critiques and analysis of various movies. His contributions to the world of cinema were widely recognized, cementing his legacy as a distinguished figure in film criticism and broadcasting.

Penelope Gilliatt was a versatile English writer who excelled in various mediums, including novels, short stories, screenplays, and film criticism. She gained recognition as a prominent film critic for The New Yorker, celebrated for her intricate descriptions and vivid reviews during the 1960s and 1970s. Gilliatt's talent extended to writing short stories, non-fiction works, and screenplays, earning her a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for her work on Sunday Bloody Sunday (1971).

Suzy Menkes is a highly respected British journalist and fashion critic known for her influential role in the fashion industry. She has held prominent positions such as fashion editor at the International Herald Tribune and editor of Vogue International for numerous international editions online. Menkes' expertise and keen eye for fashion trends have solidified her reputation as a trusted authority in the fashion world. Her contributions have shaped the industry's landscape and inspired countless individuals within the fashion community.

Philip Neville French was an influential English film critic and radio producer. He started his career in journalism in the late 1950s, eventually transitioning to become a BBC Radio producer. French later became a renowned film critic, known for his work in The Observer starting in 1963 until his retirement in 2013. His contributions to the field were recognized with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire appointment in December 2012. French's impact on the industry was highlighted upon his passing in 2015, with Observer successor Mark Kermode praising him as an inspiration to a whole generation of film critics.

James Evershed Agate was an influential English diarist and theatre critic during the interwar period. Beginning his journalism career in his late twenties, he worked for The Manchester Guardian before becoming a respected drama critic for publications such as The Saturday Review, The Sunday Times, and the BBC. Known for his insightful commentary on British theatre, Agate also delved into non-theatrical subjects including sports, social gossip, and personal concerns. He authored novels, translated plays, and regularly published collections of theatre essays and reviews, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of his time.

Elizabeth Dilys Powell CBE was a prominent British film critic and travel writer who made significant contributions to The Sunday Times for over five decades. Known for her openness to cultural evolution in cinema, Powell coined numerous memorable phrases about films and actors. She played a key role as a founding member of the Independent Television Authority (ITA), instrumental in the launch of commercial television in the UK. Additionally, Powell's influence extended to academia, becoming the second female president of the Classical Association and authoring several acclaimed books on films and her travels in Greece.

John Robert Whiting was a versatile figure in the English arts scene, known for his contributions as an actor, dramatist, and critic. He made a significant impact in the world of theater with his thought-provoking plays and insightful critiques. Whiting's work showcased his talent for storytelling and his keen understanding of human nature. His professional life was marked by a dedication to the arts and a commitment to creating meaningful and impactful works that resonated with audiences and critics alike.

John Russell Taylor is an accomplished English critic and author known for his critical studies of British theatre and biographies of prominent figures in film such as Alfred Hitchcock, Alec Guinness, Orson Welles, Vivien Leigh, and Ingrid Bergman. His work also includes the notable book "Strangers in Paradise: The Hollywood Emigres 1933–1950" published in 1983, as well as various books on art. Taylor's extensive contributions to the fields of theatre, film, and art have established him as a respected and influential figure in the world of criticism and literature.

Cedric Henning Belfrage was an English film critic, journalist, writer, and political activist. He co-founded the radical US weekly National Guardian, leaving a significant mark in journalism. Later, he was implicated as a Soviet agent in the US intelligence Venona project. However, it was revealed that he had been operating as a double agent for the British Security Co-ordination. Belfrage's professional life was characterized by his diverse roles in media, activism, and intelligence, showcasing his complex and controversial legacy.