Ebert Roger was one of the most famous and influential film critics of all time. He wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times for over 40 years and became known for his clear and insightful movie reviews. His way of writing was simple yet powerful, making even the most complex films easy to understand for everyone. Through his reviews, Ebert Roger helped many people choose what movies to watch and think more deeply about them.

Ebert Roger’s career wasn’t just about reviewing films. He was a champion for independent movies and directors that weren’t always in the spotlight. He believed in the power of storytelling and how films could touch people’s hearts. His passion for movies made him a trusted voice in the world of film criticism, and his legacy lives on today.

Who Was Ebert Roger? A Glimpse into His Life and Career

Ebert Roger was born in Urbana, Illinois, in 1942, and grew up to become one of the most respected voices in film criticism. From a young age, he loved movies and writing. He studied journalism at the University of Illinois and worked as a writer before becoming a movie critic. His reviews started appearing in the Chicago Sun-Times in 1967, and that’s where he became known nationwide.

Ebert Roger’s reviews were famous for being clear and easy to read. He didn’t just talk about the facts of the movie, but also shared his feelings and thoughts. This made his reviews stand out from the others. Over time, he became more than just a critic – he was a teacher of film, helping people understand the art of cinema in a way that made sense to everyone.

How Ebert Roger Changed the Way We Watch Movies

Before Ebert Roger, film criticism was often hard to understand. Many critics used big words and complicated ideas, which made it tough for everyday people to enjoy. But Ebert Roger made film criticism accessible. His writing style was friendly and conversational, making it easy for anyone to read and enjoy his reviews.

Ebert Roger also helped change how people saw movies. He believed that movies were for everyone, not just for critics or filmmakers. He championed films that were creative and bold, even if they were from smaller, independent filmmakers. His reviews inspired many to watch movies they might not have considered before.

Ebert Roger’s Journey: From Small Town Critic to Global Icon

Ebert Roger’s rise to fame wasn’t quick, but it was steady. He started as a local film critic in Urbana, Illinois, but soon became a key writer at the Chicago Sun-Times. His career took off when he started co-hosting the popular PBS show Sneak Previews with Gene Siskel. Their friendly debates and the famous “Two Thumbs Up” review system helped make film criticism more mainstream.

Even after Gene Siskel’s passing in 1999, Ebert Roger continued to influence the world of movies. He hosted the show with new co-hosts and continued to share his thoughts on film. His insights and style left a lasting mark on the film industry.

Ebert Roger’s Most Memorable Film Reviews: What Made Them Special?

Ebert Roger’s reviews stood out for their honesty and clarity. He had the ability to take complex films and break them down into easy-to-understand explanations. Whether the movie was a big blockbuster or an independent film, Ebert Roger treated every movie with respect and gave his honest opinion.

Some of his most famous reviews include his critiques of films like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and The Godfather. His opinions often helped shape how these films were received by audiences and critics. Ebert Roger’s reviews were more than just about movies; they were a way of looking at the world through the lens of cinema.

The Impact of Ebert Roger’s ‘Two Thumbs Up’ Review System

Ebert Roger and his co-host Gene Siskel made the phrase “Two Thumbs Up” famous. This simple idea became a symbol for positive film reviews. When both critics gave a movie a thumbs up, it was seen as a big endorsement. This simple gesture became a trusted way for people to know if a movie was worth watching.

Ebert Roger’s Favorite Films: A Peek Into His Personal Picks

Throughout his career, Ebert Roger wrote about many films, but some of them became his personal favorites. These films weren’t always the most popular, but they stood out because of their powerful stories, characters, and themes. For Ebert Roger, it wasn’t just about the box office numbers; it was about the heart and soul of the film.

Conclusion

Ebert Roger was more than just a film critic; he was a storyteller, teacher, and guide for movie lovers everywhere. His reviews helped millions of people see movies in a new way, and his “Two Thumbs Up” system became an iconic symbol of positive movie reviews. Even after his passing, his influence continues to shape how we watch and talk about films today.

FAQs

Q: What made Ebert Roger’s reviews so popular?
A: Ebert Roger’s reviews were easy to understand, honest, and thoughtful. He wrote in a way that made complex films accessible to everyone.

Q: Did Ebert Roger ever work on any films?
A: Yes, he co-wrote the script for the movie Beyond the Valley of the Dolls in 1970.

Q: What was Ebert Roger’s “Two Thumbs Up” system?
A: The “Two Thumbs Up” system was a way of giving a positive review when both Ebert Roger and his co-host agreed a movie was good.

Q: How did Ebert Roger keep writing after his health issues?
A: Even after losing the ability to speak and eat due to cancer, Ebert Roger continued to write his reviews online and in print.

Q: Is Ebert Roger’s website still active?
A: Yes, RogerEbert.com continues to archive his reviews and articles, keeping his legacy alive.