A criterion is a standard or a benchmark by which something can be judged. It usually includes a value that the subject is striving to attain. For instance, a captivating plot of a movie could be a criterion. A plot, by itself, is not a criterion, it is an element of film.
Consider these examples of criteria for judging a film and apply them to a recent film you have seen. Try to be indifferent to the existence or the non-existence of the film you are judging. And be sure to see the film twice before you even dare to analyze it. Ignore all industry marketing campaigns.
Long lasting emotional impact
Narrative cohesion
Ability to sustain the cinematic illusion of a reality
Effective story structure
Expression of universal truths through the personal
Astonishing cinematography that contributes to the narrative whole
Passes the test of time
Meaningful themes
The 'wow that was a good movie' factor
Positive intangibles
Transformative acting
High context dialog
These are some, not all, of the criteria one might use to judge the artistic merit of a film and build an arguably true case that such and such a film is a good film.
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