How to Write Great Reviews

Everybody's a critic. If you've ever tried to get a group of friends to agree to see the same movie, you know I'm right. "I don't like that actor." "That story sounds stupid." "That theater doesn't even have cupholders."  Everyone's got an opinion. Few of us keep them to ourselves. But how do you go from giving some your informal thoughts about some product to getting a written review published by a paper or e-zine or magazine? I have worked as a review writer and editor for an entertainment e-zine for six years. In that time, I've come to believe there are a few things would-be reviewers should consider before they write even their first critical word. Once you've got the basics, the world is yours to give a thumbs up or down.

First, know what a review is. Maybe more to the point, know what a review isn't. A review is not a recap of the aTV show episode or the whole plot of a book. It's not just listing the different features of a PC game or what songs are on a new CD. Those things might be included in part in a review, but they're not the main event. Instead, a review is a critical evaluation of a product or service or event. Critical means you have to tell people, explain to people, what's good and what's bad about your subject matter. By doing so effectively, you inform, sometimes entertain, and often influence decisions. "That guy said that movie was bad. I'll wait til it comes out on video." A review then, besides being this critical evaluation, is also a good tool for mind control. How 'bout that. The single best way to learn what a professional review is really like? Read some! Check out a major paper or magazine for a start.