Betsy sharkey

How did you get started as a film critic?

I was just an

What movie are you embarrassed to admit you love?

"Pretty Woman" – to me it's ridiculously, inexcusably, nonsensically romantic.
Name a film you think everybody should see. A double feature of "Casablanca" and "Chinatown"
What's the most common question you're asked when someone discovers you're a film critic? It's a toss-up between what's your favorite movie (there isn't one) and how can I become a film critic (it's complicated).

What's the most controversial review you've written?

"Sucker Punch" – I think I was the only one, except possibly the director's mother, who liked it, though tktkt is the film that got the most reader reaction.

Do you like to discuss a movie with other critics immediately after a screening or before writing a review?

No, I avoid it. For better or worse, I want the opinions and the thinking to be mine alone. 
What other film critics, past or present, do you admire? Joe Morgenstern, as lyrical as he is brutal. Anthony Lane for the clarity inside his creativity. Pauline Kael for her uncompromising irascibility.

What's the worst film you've ever seen?

That's tough, but most recently, it would have to be "Priest." 

To the public at large, what purpose does a professional film critic serve?

To frame the conversation.

What's the best part of being a film critic and the worst part of being a film critic?

Everything and nothing, but ask me again in 10 years.

Name the worst sequel ever.

Everything except "Godfather II"

What's the biggest misconception people have about film critics?

That it's not work.

What would you say to the old saw that critics are frustrated artists, punishing those who do for doing?

That starts with the misconception that criticism isn't an art form, that writing isn't a craft, that creativity only exists in other mediums and that the exchange of ideas isn't incredibly satisfying – criticism is, or can be, all of those things.

Has social media changed how you interact with your readers and has social media made the job of film critic easier or harder?

It's completely transformed interaction with readers, they not only get in touch, they stay in touch – usually a good thing. The best thing is the way it's made readers of the entire world.