read a movie review

/riːd ə ˈmuː.vi rɪˈvjuː/

Meaning

This expression refers to looking at a written critique of a film, usually written by a journalist or a viewer, to see if it is worth watching. It is a common habit for film lovers who want to avoid bad movies. The phrase is neutral and widely used in casual and professional entertainment contexts.

Examples

  • I always read a movie review before I spend money at the theater.

    I always read a movie review before I spend money at the theater.

  • She likes to read a movie review to understand the deeper themes.

    She likes to read a movie review to understand the deeper themes.

  • Don't read a movie review if you want to avoid spoilers!

    Don't read a movie review if you want to avoid spoilers!

  • He decided not to see the film after he had to read a movie review that was terrible.

    He decided not to see the film after he had to read a movie review that was terrible.

  • It is interesting to read a movie review written by an actual critic.

    It is interesting to read a movie review written by an actual critic.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ I like to read a movie critic before going to the cinema.

    ✓ I like to read a movie review before going to the cinema.

    A 'critic' is the person who writes the text. You read the 'review' (the text itself), not the 'critic' (the person).

  • ✗ I read a movie opinion on that blog.

    ✓ I read a movie review on that blog.

    While 'opinion' is grammatically correct, 'movie review' is the standard, natural collocation used in English.

Related Expressions

check the ratingslook at film critiquesread a write-up

Practice

  • I never ___ before seeing a film because I hate knowing the plot beforehand.

    💡 Look at a written critique of the film.

    Show answer

    read a movie review

  • If you are not sure if the film is good, you should ___ online.

    💡 Look up what critics wrote about it.

    Show answer

    read a movie review