Friday, April 5, 2013

The Loss of a Legend: Roger Ebert dead at age 70


It was the end of an era in film criticism Thursday when Roger Ebert died at age 70 after years of fighting a brutal battle with cancer. For over forty five years, Roger Ebert was the face of film criticism as he became a beloved film critic through his writing featured in the Chicago Sun-Times and his television program titled At The Movies.

Chaz Ebert, in a statement addressing the death of her husband, said that their life together was “more beautiful and epic than a movie”.  I think this same statement can be applied to Ebert’s Career as a film critic. Whether it me a positive or negative review of a film, Ebert always managed to brilliantly blend his larger than life personality and critical eye, making it clear that he was, above all else, a fan of movies.  

Personally, Roger Ebert is the reason that I view film criticism and reviews as a form of art. He knew exactly how to turn his thoughts into perfectly selected and pieced together words. Even though I need a dictionary at times when reading a review of his, Ebert makes it look easy. I have always had a deep affection for film but Ebert’s television program with Gene Siskel and Richard Roeper was really the first time I was introduced to healthy discussions concerning film. So whether it is this introduction to film criticism or his fantastic writing, Roger Ebert will always hold a special place in my experience as a fan of film. Thank You Roger for the four star career and extraordinary life.           

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