HELP WANTED: Seeking People with Unique Voices and a Passion for Film and Television

DVD Verdict
Independent Film
TV on DVD
Kids and Family

Cinema Verdict
Film Critics

TV Verdict
Television Critics

Verdict is one of the most respected internet resources for film and television criticism. With more than 40 writers and editors located throughout the US, Canada, and the UK, we cover everything from the biggest Hollywood blockbusters to the smallest independents, as well broadcast network, cable, satellite, and internet programming. At Verdict you are guaranteed to find thought-provoking, insightful, and often irreverent reviews, interviews, and commentary from a diverse collective of first-class writers. We love what we do and share that passion with more than 12 Million of our closest friends.

You may be saying to yourself, "I love movies and TV. How do I become a Judge?"

It's easy. To start the ball rolling, all we need is a sample review written in the Verdict format.

"How do I do that?"

DVD Critics
Start by reading other Verdict reviews, so you're familiar with subtleties of the format. When ready, select a DVD, preferably something you've never seen. This is our way of seeing how you approach a film with no previous connection or passionate ties. Watch it, paying close attention to the thoughts and emotions it stirs. Then, using the template, tell us what you loved, what you hated, and what you were ambivalent about; what worked, and what didn't; which actors soared, and which fell flat. Share your thoughts on the image and sound quality, and bonus materials (if any). Finally, tell us if you would recommend purchasing, renting, or avoiding this DVD like the plague. This is an unpaid position, but you will receive final product for review.

Film Critics
Head out to the local multiplex or art house and see something that interests or intrigues you. Using Cinema Verdict's format, tell us what worked and what didn't -- Was the plot cohesive and compelling? Were the acting performances authentic? Describe the cinematography and the use of sound. Did you have previous knowledge of the project going into it, and did it live up to your expectations? Share your experience at the theater -- Was the crowd into it? Did they applaud when it was over? What were some of the comments you overheard from other audience members on the way out? This is an unpaid position. Our goal is to get you into as many press screenings as possible.

Television Critics
True, there are countless blogs covering television, but a focus on cult television combined with our unique judgmental wit sets us apart. We're looking for writers who want to create a regular column and muse on whatever television topics push your buttons; news hounds who want to be the first to break a story; and folks who can follow a particular series and riff on it, highlighting the kind of things casual viewers might miss. If you have passion, insight, and a great sense of observational humor, turn on the TV, go to work, and send us the result. This is much less formal than DVD and Cinema Verdict, so there's no template required. This is an unpaid position, but advanced screeners of series and specials will be made available for your review.

Remember, this is a conversational medium that demands nothing but your own personal opinion, good or bad. Think of yourself sitting next to friend talking about movie; you're telling a story in your own voice. Don't try to ape the style of Pauline Kael, Roger Ebert, AO Scott, or any other recognizable critics. They are who they are because of their unique voices. Be yourself and let your true personality shine through. The most successful writers are the ones who create a sense of intimacy with the reader.

Two caveats: 1) Most of our reviews run somewhere in the neighborhood of 750-2000 words; so don't write a masters thesis or a junior high book report. Either extreme risks losing the interest of the reader. 2) Don't plagiarize someone else's work. Journalistic integrity is a huge deal; in this day and age where it's very easy to cut, paste, and alter another writer's words, our editors are extra cautious when evaluating new talent.

"I can do that. What else do you need?"

Write up a quick bio telling us who you are, where you live (state, country), what you do for a living, what you're passionate about, and why you would make a great addition to the Verdict family. We want to know the person behind the words.

Email your sample review and bio (as attachments in .doc, .txt, or .pdf format) to helpwanted@dvdverdict.com. Our editorial team will review every application as they arrive. There is no deadline at this time. The evaluation window will stay open until we find the talent we're looking for. Only serious applications will be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) How much experience do I need?
If you know your way around the English language and can express your thoughts in a clear and engaging manner, you're in good shape. You don't have to be a professional, but you may very well become one by working with us.

2) Do I really have to write something new or can I just send links to samples of my previous work?
You can always include links to previous work, but in order to understand how well you grasp the Verdict format, we need something written with our template.

3) If I already work for another site, can I still apply?
Absolutely. We have several team members who contribute to multiple print and online publications. Just know that we aren't here to re-post reviews you've written for other sites, and make sure you aren't violating any non-compete restrictions in place with other publishers.

4) What's the time commitment?
We're looking for writers who can commit to a minimum of one review per week.

5) What do you pay?
There is no cash compensation, at this time. However, there are other perks and incentives which will make it worth your while -- press screenings, after parties, film festivals, award shows, set visits, amazon.com gift certificates, studio swag, and more.

This is an exciting time for Verdict. We'd love to add your energy, enthusiasm, and insight to the team. If you have any questions or concerns, let us know.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Michael Stailey
Publisher, Editor-In-Chief
DVD Verdict, Cinema Verdict, TV Verdict
mstailey@dvdverdict.com