The Power of Film Criticism: Why African Filmmakers Should Embrace Constructive Criticism

Filmmakers pour their hearts and souls into their work, making each project deeply personal. This emotional investment often makes it difficult to accept any form of criticism, no matter how constructive. In general, most people struggle with receiving feedback, as it can feel like a direct attack rather than an opportunity for growth. This sensitivity is even more pronounced in the film industry, where the creative process is both personal and exhausting. As a result, being a film critic is an uphill battle—not only because filmmakers can be defensive, but also due to the widespread belief that one must have extensive experience in filmmaking before they can critique films. This notion undermines the fact that criticism is about analyzing storytelling, technique, and audience impact, rather than replicating the process of making a film. It creates an unnecessary barrier, making it even harder for film criticism to thrive in spaces where it is already undervalued.

Film criticism is an essential pillar of the global film industry. It provides an analytical lens through which audiences and filmmakers engage with cinema beyond mere entertainment. While the Western film industry has long embraced criticism as a tool for growth and excellence, many African filmmakers remain skeptical about its role, often viewing it as an attack rather than an opportunity for improvement. However, constructive criticism is crucial for the evolution of African cinema, ensuring that filmmakers continue to refine their craft and produce globally competitive films.

The Role of Constructive Criticism in Film

Constructive criticism is not about tearing down a film or discrediting a filmmaker’s hard work. Instead, it is a thoughtful analysis that highlights both strengths and weaknesses, offering insights into what works and what could be improved. A well-articulated critique can provide feedback on aspects such as storytelling, character development, cinematography, pacing, and sound design.

In the West, film criticism plays a significant role in shaping industry standards. It pushes filmmakers to experiment, innovate, and refine their storytelling techniques. Critics challenge directors and writers to think deeper about their narratives, leading to films that resonate on both emotional and intellectual levels.

Why African Filmmakers Should Welcome Film Criticism

Encourages Artistic Growth – Honest feedback allows filmmakers to identify areas of improvement, helping them refine their craft. Without criticism, artists risk stagnation, repeating the same mistakes, or failing to evolve.

Improves Industry Standards – In regions where film criticism is valued, we see higher production standards and more engaging storytelling. If African filmmakers embrace critique, the overall quality of films will rise, making them more competitive on the global stage.

Bridges the Gap Between Filmmakers and Audiences – Film critics help audiences engage with cinema on a deeper level, offering context, interpretation, and appreciation for different artistic choices. When filmmakers understand how their work is perceived, they can create better experiences for their viewers.

Boosts International Recognition – Many African filmmakers aspire to have their work recognized at major festivals like Cannes, Berlinale, or the Oscars. However, to meet these high standards, constructive feedback is essential. The Western film industry thrives on constant dialogue between critics and filmmakers, ensuring that only the best work makes it to prestigious platforms. At least it has been for some years...

The Best Approach to Film Criticism

For film criticism to be effective, both critics and filmmakers must adopt a mindset of mutual respect and growth. Here’s how:

• Critics Should Be Fair and Constructive – Criticism should never be personal or malicious. It should focus on the film’s craft, providing balanced feedback that highlights strengths as well as areas for improvement. There is a gaping difference between constructive criticism and negative criticism. Constructive criticism offers valuable feedback for improvement, while negative criticism simply tears down without providing solutions.
• Filmmakers Should Be Open to Feedback – Instead of seeing critics as enemies, filmmakers should recognize them as part of the ecosystem that shapes the industry. Accepting critique with an open mind leads to artistic growth.
• Audiences Should Engage Thoughtfully – Viewers play a role in shaping the industry by engaging with critiques, sharing their thoughts, and supporting films that push creative boundaries.

In Hollywood and European film industries, critics have long played a vital role in shaping cinema. Publications like The New York Times, The Guardian, Variety, and The Hollywood Reporter influence public perception and industry trends. Directors such as Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino acknowledge the role of critics in challenging their work and pushing them to improve.

Platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic aggregate reviews, creating a culture where criticism is not only accepted but actively sought out by filmmakers aiming to refine their storytelling. This system ensures that audiences are well-informed, and the industry maintains high standards. If something is working elsewhere, why not do it. I am not saying copy everything happening in the west. They have their own fair share of things that just don't work.

As a film critic navigating the African industry, I have experienced firsthand how difficult it is to carve out space in an industry that often disregards criticism. Unlike in the West, where critics are respected voices shaping film discourse, African critics often struggle to be taken seriously. Many filmmakers perceive reviews as personal attacks rather than professional assessments, making it challenging to foster a culture of constructive dialogue.

Yet, I believe that film criticism is essential for the growth of African cinema. I will continue to push forward, offering honest, well-researched critiques in an industry that has yet to fully embrace the role of critics. The goal is not to tear down but to build up—to encourage filmmakers to refine their craft and tell stories that can compete on a global stage.

For African cinema to reach its full potential, filmmakers must stop viewing criticism as an attack and start seeing it as a tool for growth. The best filmmakers in the world understand that feedback—both positive and negative—is essential for improvement. If African filmmakers want to compete on the global stage, they must foster a culture where critique is not dismissed but embraced.

So, the question is: Are African filmmakers ready to step up, take criticism head-on, and use it to elevate their craft? Or will they see film critics are just enemies trying to knock down their work?

Signing out,

Gloria Nkatha,

Film critic and social media strategist.