Leonard Maltin, a renowned film critic, holds the world record for the shortest movie review ever, with a simple “No” for the movie Isn’t It Romantic?. On the other hand, Anupama Chopra, an accomplished film critic, believes in providing thorough analysis of films, highlighting both the merits and shortcomings, to enable viewers to make informed decisions. Throughout her career, she has achieved remarkable feats, including leading Film Companion with commitment to quality, focusing on non-Hindi cinema, and maintaining credibility as a critic.
Anupama emphasizes the importance of preparation when interviewing stars, ensuring a professional and respectful approach. She explores topics like actors’ immersion in characters and the balance between public and private lives of celebrities. She also reflects on the impact of social media on stardom and emphasizes the importance of quality work and connection with the audience in achieving superstardom.
Despite meeting numerous heroes and celebrities in her career, Anupama finds the experiences rewarding and advises against forming personal friendships to maintain objectivity. She highlights the importance of focusing on regional cinema, regretting not doing so earlier, and encourages the industry to embrace credible criticism for improvement. She also discusses the challenge of separating the art from the artiste, especially in light of recent controversies like #MeToo.
Anupama’s dedication to Film Companion is evident, but she recently decided to become the editor of The Hollywood Reporter in India, leading to the pause of Film Companion. However, she assures that she will be back soon, continuing her journalistic endeavors. Her commitment to storytelling and longform journalism remains strong, and she looks forward to the new opportunities ahead.
In conclusion, Anupama Chopra’s contributions to film criticism and journalism have been significant, with a focus on quality, credibility, and the representation of regional cinema. Her insights into the industry, stars, and the art of storytelling provide a unique perspective that resonates with audiences and critics alike. As she embarks on a new chapter in her career, her impact on the world of cinema and entertainment remains enduring.
