There used to be a time when newspapers and magazines hand selected their critics. These critics then went on to become experts in the fields they were writing about. These critics built up their reputations and become trusted members in society. Their opinions were the reason a community tried a new restaurant or paid the money to see a movie in theatres.

Those times are long gone. Now with the internet anyone can be a critic, whether that means starting one’s own movie blog or a posting a review on Facebook or Yelp. Now people from all different racial, gender and economic backgrounds can share their perspective and opinion.

In today’s time the role of the critic is not to be the defining opinion of a piece of art or movie, but rather to share one’s perspective on it and open up discussion. In order to do this I believe in my reviews I must include personal stories within them. These stories from my life experiences will explain my reasoning for my position on the subject I am reviewing.

Along with sharing my personal experiences I believe it is important to make my reviews a place of discussion. In some section of my review there will be a spot for readers to leave comments where they can share their perspective on the subject being critiqued. Readers with both the same and opposite opinions will be invited to participate in the discussion.

Movies, food and all other subjects for review have this special way of bringing people together. In their new role critics will be able to take this connection further by allowing others to understand the perspectives of those with different cultural and social backgrounds. By explaining their opinion with personal experiences critics can provide an outlet for discussion and understanding.