If you ask me to describe myself, I will say I am just one of those amateur critics who have watched lots of movies every year. I know many names of great directors or actors or other legendary technicians. I know some technical terms. I know when and how to apply around 40% of them in my reviews and I recently learned what the hell master shot is. I know what David Bordwell means to other serious critics but I read only one of his books, “Film History: An Introduction”. Sadly, there was only vol. 1 in my campus library but it was very intriguing to know from that book that they also had movie critics during silent movie.
Somehow, I’m usually capable of recognizing good movies. I am passionate about them and I love to talk with people about them. When I frequented bars in those alcoholic days, my topic for strangers were movies (and books, sometimes). I talked with bartenders and other customers about old movies and new movies of the week shown in our local theaters. I’m still in feedback learning stage in case of moviegoing. I know my limits and I have been struggling with them.
2010 is the year of uncertainty to me and time is short for me now. At least, I was able to enjoy Oscar, Chicago, and Ebertfest during that short period, and then I will move on to whatever I will have to do. I am not so proud of myself. I have messed up a lot while living my life, but it has provided me lots of good things. I have been lucky to have good parents and enjoy lots of movies and books under their protection. And also lucky to get acquainted with Mr. Ebert and his far-flung correspondents and other prolific bloggers and to express my opinion about movies freely. I have lots of doubts, but I will go on.
A wistful self introduction!
Hello, I’m Tiko from Indonesia.
You have a quite unique introduction by saying “I’m not proud of my self.”
Why, hello Seongyong! Ever since your articles were first posted on Roger Ebert’s site, I have been consistently impressed with your literary acumen. I also blog about films, although I try and focus on films that are overlooked or under-appreciated. I would greately appreciate it if you would look around my site, leave a comment, and tell me what you think!
I also would be eternally grateful if you would recommend some films that you feel are criminally under-appreciated. My blog address is:
http://forgottenclassicsofyesteryear.blogspot.com/
Thank you!
I would like to say I seem to be at a similar stage in life and possibly have lots in common with interests in film and industry. I seem to have high expectations for myself so I’m not that proud of my self either, but I like to think I have a lot to be proud of too… Nice to meet You.
Hi – came across your website via Roger Ebert. I was wondering – how did you manage to get the great critic’s notice? Did you email or tweet him one of your reviews? Or did he just come across your blog?
Great writing btw! Enjoyed your Leaves of Grass piece.
SC: I frequently left comments in his blog, and he noticed me and other wonderful writers.