A movie is a feature motion picture that is shown at the cinema. The term is commonly used in the United States and Canada, but is also popular around the world. A film with a shorter running time is referred to as a short film, and a documentary is called a documentary. Regardless of how they are classified, movies must be well made and able to hold the attention of viewers. This is often accomplished through a combination of the acting, writing and cinematography, but the movie’s content and theme are also important elements to consider.
The word movie derives from the Latin verb “movio,” meaning to move. The first use of the term to refer to a moving picture occurred in 1912. The word was originally applied only to narrative films, but it has since come to mean all cinematic works. In modern usage, the word is sometimes used to refer to a particular genre of film, such as horror, comedy or action.
When writing a movie review, you must analyze the film, including its plot and characters. You must determine whether the story makes sense, and if the actors are convincing. You should also look at the writing, evaluating whether the dialogue sounds natural and whether it adds to the overall tone of the film. Cinematography can be another element to consider, as you need to examine how the director used the camera and lighting techniques to set a particular mood.
In addition, you must think about the movie’s themes and how it relates to the real world. Does it provide an insight into a particular social issue or historical event? Does it raise questions about human nature or the existence of God? These are the types of themes a movie can explore, and they can have a powerful impact on audiences.
A great way to get ideas for a movie review is to read other reviews of the film. However, it is important not to simply parrot the ideas of other critics. Instead, try to identify the key ideas that are shared by many of the reviewers, and then use those ideas as a framework for your own analysis.
It is helpful to take notes while you watch a movie, so that you can remember important details and specific moments. You might want to use a notepad or laptop, so that you can jot down any details that stand out to you. These may include costume design, makeup, set design or music.
One of the most influential movies ever made, Marlon Brando redefined American acting in this drama about a dock worker who turns to prostitution to cope with his loneliness. The film’s exploration of the human soul is a harrowing, timeless epic that holds up remarkably well today. Its power and profundity stem in part from the chemistry between Brando and Elia Kazan, but it is also a testament to director Robert Towne’s skill at creating dramatic tension.