Writing style and vocabulary
The work of professional critics shows that there is an opportunity to be creative when writing a review. A factual piece of work can be enhanced with the use of good vocabulary, adjectives and if used sparingly, metaphors and similes. However, be careful that what you’re trying to say doesn’t get lost in your attempt to be the next best-selling creative writer! Keep your sentences short and to the point.
The best critics articulate their opinions clearly and entertainingly to their readers as controversial critic, A A Gill’s review of the Scandinavian drama series, The Bridge demonstrates:
The first series was marvellous, the first episode of the second series couldn’t have been more disappointing. It wasn’t just dull — it was depressing and dull, as if it had decided to make a TV show based on the cartoonish stereotypes that the rest of Europe has about Scandinavia. Never has a second series been so comprehensively hoist by its own conceit.
Resist the temptation to be formulaic. Try and vary your descriptions and adjectives for each review that you write. Someone is bound to notice if you take short cuts! Here are some handy terms for you to keep in mind when writing.
Image caption, Word cloud diagram 1
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So remember:
- Don’t tell the story of the play - The factors surrounding a text that help us to understand it; the background events that help to explain something. is enough.
- Make sure that you refer to a range of drama media and elements.
- Keep your writing and sentences tight - don’t ramble or repeat yourself.
- You can be creative, but remember to make your point clearly.
- Give your own opinions but justified by examples to support your arguments.
- Structure your work so that it makes sense.
- Remember you are evaluating the production, not the play.
- Write in a positive way, with a professional tone.
