Pauline Kael

Pauline Kael (June 19, 1919 – September 3, 2001) was an American film critic known for her highly opinionated and sharp reviews. She wrote for The New Yorker from 1968 to 1991 and had a significant influence on the art form. With her witty and biting style, Kael often held contrasting views to her contemporaries. Roger Ebert, in an obituary, credited her with having a more positive impact on the film climate in America than any other person in the last three decades. Kael had a personal approach to reviewing films, devoid of theories or objective standards. Her reviews, like those of George Bernard Shaw, are admired for their style, humor, and energy even today.