Fact Check: "Roger Ebert reviewed movies without even seeing them."
What We Know
Roger Ebert was a prominent American film critic known for his extensive work with the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. He was the first film critic to win the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 1975 and was influential in popularizing film criticism through television programs like Sneak Previews and At the Movies (Ebert, [source-1]). Ebert's reviews were characterized by a deep understanding of cinema, and he was known for his commitment to watching films before providing critiques. His writing style made complex cinematic ideas accessible to a broad audience, and he championed various filmmakers and genres throughout his career (Ebert, [source-1]).
Ebert's own website, RogerEbert.com, continues to serve as an archive of his reviews and essays, further emphasizing his dedication to the craft of film criticism ([source-3]).
Analysis
The claim that Roger Ebert reviewed movies without seeing them is unfounded and contradicts his established practices as a film critic. Ebert was known for his thorough approach to film review, which included watching films in their entirety before forming his opinions. His reviews often included detailed analyses of the films' themes, cinematography, and performances, indicating a comprehensive understanding of the material he critiqued (Ebert, [source-1]).
Moreover, Ebert's reputation as a serious and respected critic would be undermined if he were to review films without viewing them. Critics and audiences alike valued his insights, which were based on firsthand experience with the films. The integrity of his work is supported by numerous testimonials from colleagues and industry professionals who recognized his commitment to watching films before reviewing them (Ebert, [source-1]).
The sources that support the claim of Ebert reviewing films without watching them lack credibility and do not provide any substantial evidence. In contrast, reputable sources consistently affirm that Ebert's reviews were based on his actual viewing of the films (Ebert, [source-1]; [source-3]).
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that Roger Ebert reviewed movies without even seeing them is false. Ebert was a dedicated film critic who consistently watched films in their entirety before writing his reviews. His extensive body of work reflects a commitment to providing informed and thoughtful critiques, which would not be possible if he had not viewed the films he was discussing.
