Deaths on April 23

Richard Corliss, American journalist and critic (b. 1944)

Richard Nelson Corliss (March 6, 1944 – April 23, 2015) was a highly influential American film critic and a long-standing editor for Time magazine, whose insightful prose and distinctive perspective shaped how many readers engaged with cinema. Throughout his remarkable career, which spanned decades, Corliss primarily dedicated his critical lens to movies, though he occasionally ventured into other subjects with equal erudition.

A Distinguished Career in Film Criticism

Corliss’s journey through the world of film criticism was marked by significant contributions and a keen intellectual curiosity. Before his extensive tenure at Time, he served as the editor-in-chief of Film Comment, a prestigious publication renowned for its serious and scholarly approach to cinema. His leadership there helped solidify its reputation as a vital voice in the industry, fostering in-depth analysis and critical discourse.

His move to Time magazine saw him become one of the most recognizable and respected voices in mainstream film criticism. For millions of readers, Corliss was the go-to authority for discerning takes on Hollywood blockbusters, independent gems, and international cinema alike. He possessed a rare ability to blend academic rigor with accessible, engaging prose, making complex cinematic ideas understandable and enjoyable for a broad audience. His reviews were not just critiques; they were often miniature essays, rich with cultural context and a deep appreciation for the art form.

Championing the Screenwriter: The Legacy of Talking Pictures

One of Richard Corliss’s most profound and enduring contributions to film criticism was his steadfast advocacy for the screenwriter, a role that had often been overshadowed by the director in the critical discourse of the mid-20th century. This perspective was most clearly articulated in his seminal book, Talking Pictures: Screenwriters in the American Cinema, 1927-1973. Published in 1974, this work, along with numerous articles and essays, challenged the prevailing "auteur theory," which primarily attributed artistic authorship of a film to its director.

Corliss argued compellingly that the screenwriter was equally, if not more, crucial in shaping a film's narrative, dialogue, and thematic core. By highlighting the distinct voices and craftsmanship of screenwriters, he brought much-needed attention to their creative input, prompting critics and audiences alike to consider film as a collaborative art form where the script laid the fundamental groundwork. This shift in focus not only enriched film analysis but also granted long-overdue recognition to the often unsung heroes behind the pen.

Legacy and Influence

Richard Corliss's influence extended far beyond his individual reviews. He was celebrated for his wide-ranging knowledge, his elegant writing style, and his ability to engage with films on multiple levels – from their technical merits to their cultural significance. His career underscored the importance of serious, intelligent film criticism in understanding and appreciating cinema as an art form and as a reflection of society. He left behind a body of work that continues to inform and inspire generations of film lovers and aspiring critics.

Frequently Asked Questions about Richard Corliss

What was Richard Corliss best known for?

Richard Corliss was primarily known as an American film critic and editor for Time magazine. He was also recognized for his work as editor-in-chief of Film Comment and for his books, particularly Talking Pictures, which emphasized the importance of screenwriters.

What was the significance of his book, Talking Pictures?

Talking Pictures: Screenwriters in the American Cinema, 1927-1973 was a groundbreaking work that drew critical attention to the role of the screenwriter in filmmaking. It argued against the sole focus on directors (the auteur theory) and championed screenwriters as primary artistic contributors, thereby enriching film analysis.

Which magazines did he work for?

He worked as an editor and film critic for Time magazine for several decades and was also the former editor-in-chief of Film Comment.

What was his main contribution to film criticism?

Beyond his extensive body of reviews, his most significant contribution was perhaps his advocacy for the screenwriter. He helped shift the critical conversation to acknowledge the fundamental role of writers in shaping a film's artistic identity, challenging director-centric views.

When did Richard Corliss live and work?

Richard Nelson Corliss lived from March 6, 1944, to April 23, 2015. His active career as a film critic and editor spanned several decades within these years.