Kevin Smiths new movie, Yoga Hosers, has been hit hard by critics.
But both they and he have changed a little…
This article originally appeared onDen of Geek UK.
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But I still think there are points worth discussing here.
Moreover, said studios are succeeding.
But back to Kevin Smith.
A film that many didnt take to, it had a few very vocal supporters.
This is a follow-up of sorts toTusk, in that they are both part of his plannedTrue Northhorror trilogy.
Smith addressed this on hisHollywood Babble-onpodcast.
I was at three screenings [at Sundance] and it played wonderfully, he said.
It was a wonderful experience watching the girls ascend and start doing interviews.
People ate them up like candy.
The critics on the other hand holy fuck!
Like I get it, the movies not for everyone.
And based on what I read its not for anyone, he said.
He added that I dont even get mad, its not for the critics.
Its those last five words that really pricked my ears up.
I think there are valid questions in that, that are only partially being answered by video on demand.
He asked a useful question, that still years later needs a more useful answer.
WithYoga Hosers, though, Im not quite sure I fully agree with Smiths points.
I get the demarcation between films that are being perceived as for critics, and those that arent.
But that implies a snobbishness in all film criticism that I genuinely dont believe is there.
And I think the role of the critic has migrated somewhat.
In less extreme cases?
It can just make people go and see it.
That has to be worth something.
Furthermore, the pool of critics is broader.
Get one website on your side, and they can start banging the drum for your film.
Ultimately, though, sometimes just one critical voice can sometimes prove pivotal.
More recently,Creeddirector Ryan Coogler eschewed the virtues of film criticism.
He thus sought out Changs reviews, and discovered his review ofA Prophet.
Its now Cooglers favorite film.
This, for me, is the role that film criticism is increasingly taking on.
On Friday 12th February 2016, there are 21 releases marked for UK cinemas.
But whos going to put up a fight forWelcome To Leith?
Im intrigued to see the film, for one.
Were all human beings, after all.
