Roger Ebert, American journalist, critic, and screenwriter (b. 1942)

Understanding Roger Ebert: America's Beloved Film Critic

Roger Joseph Ebert (June 18, 1942 – April 4, 2013) wasn't just a film critic; he was a cultural institution, a prolific film historian, journalist, screenwriter, and author who shaped the way millions thought about cinema. For an incredible 46 years, from 1967 until his passing in 2013, he served as the esteemed film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times. His profound influence was recognized nationally when, in 1975, Ebert made history as the very first film critic to be awarded the coveted Pulitzer Prize for Criticism. Industry peers widely acknowledged his unparalleled impact; Neil Steinberg of the Chicago Sun-Times declared him "without question the nation's most prominent and influential film critic," while Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times hailed him as "the best-known film critic in America."

The Distinct Voice of a Critic

What truly set Roger Ebert apart was his intimate, relatable Midwestern writing voice, a style deeply rooted in values of populism and humanism. He possessed a unique gift for making complex cinematic and analytical concepts accessible and entertaining for a broad audience, eschewing jargon for direct, engaging prose. While he championed popular appeal, Ebert wasn't afraid to endorse foreign and independent films that he believed held universal appeal, often giving these lesser-known works a much-needed spotlight and significantly increasing their exposure to mainstream viewers. His reviews were not just opinions; they were insightful conversations, inviting readers into the world of film with warmth and intellectual rigor.

Pioneering Film Reviewing on Television: Siskel & Ebert

Alongside fellow Chicago Tribune critic Gene Siskel, Roger Ebert revolutionized televised film reviewing, transforming it into a nationally popular phenomenon. Their dynamic partnership began with the PBS show Sneak Previews, which evolved into several iterations of the acclaimed At the Movies programs. Audiences were captivated by their legendary on-screen chemistry, marked by witty verbal sparring and humorous barbs, all in the service of passionate film discussion. It was their enduring collaboration that famously gave birth to and trademarked the iconic phrase "two thumbs up," a simple yet powerful seal of approval that has since become synonymous with a highly recommended film. Following Siskel's untimely death in 1999, Ebert continued to host the show with various co-hosts before ultimately finding a new, long-term partner in Richard Roeper, starting in 2000, ensuring the show's legacy lived on.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Ebert's life took a challenging turn in 2002 when he was diagnosed with cancer of the thyroid and salivary glands. The subsequent years brought severe health battles, culminating in a critical surgery in 2006 where a section of his lower jaw was removed. This left him profoundly disfigured and unable to speak or eat normally, a devastating blow for a man whose livelihood was built on communication. Yet, in an extraordinary testament to his spirit, his ability to write remained entirely unimpaired. Defying the physical limitations, Roger Ebert continued to publish frequently, both online and in print, captivating his readership with his insightful reviews and essays until his death on April 4, 2013. His unwavering dedication proved that the voice of a critic could transcend even the most profound personal hardships.

An Enduring Legacy: RogerEbert.com

The impact of Roger Ebert extends far beyond his lifetime. His website, RogerEbert.com, which he launched in 2002 and was initially supported by the Chicago Sun-Times, continues to thrive online. It serves as an invaluable, comprehensive archive of his vast body of published writings and reviews, allowing new generations to discover his wisdom. Moreover, the site remains a vibrant hub for contemporary film criticism, hosting new material penned by a select group of critics hand-picked by Ebert himself before his passing. This thoughtful succession plan ensures that his vision for insightful, accessible film discussion continues to influence and inspire.

Frequently Asked Questions about Roger Ebert

Who was Roger Ebert?

Roger Ebert (1942-2013) was an American film critic, film historian, journalist, screenwriter, and author, best known for his influential reviews for the Chicago Sun-Times and his role in popularizing televised film criticism alongside Gene Siskel.

What was his significance in film criticism?

Ebert was arguably the most prominent and influential film critic in America. He was the first film critic to win the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 1975, and he made sophisticated cinematic ideas accessible to mainstream audiences through his engaging, populist writing style. His partnership with Gene Siskel on Siskel & Ebert shows profoundly impacted film reviewing culture.

What were the "Siskel & Ebert" shows?

These were nationally televised programs, including Sneak Previews and At the Movies, co-hosted by Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel. They popularized film reviewing by showcasing the critics' lively debates and their famous "two thumbs up" rating system, which became a cultural touchstone for film recommendations.

How did Roger Ebert continue his work after his illness?

Despite losing his ability to speak or eat normally after surgery for cancer in 2006, Roger Ebert continued to write prolifically for the Chicago Sun-Times and his website, RogerEbert.com. His unwavering dedication to his craft demonstrated immense resilience and ensured his critical voice remained impactful until his death.

Does RogerEbert.com still exist?

Yes, RogerEbert.com continues to operate as a living archive of his extensive body of work. It also features new reviews and articles by a team of critics personally selected by Ebert before his passing, carrying forward his legacy of thoughtful and accessible film discussion.