Magazine Reviews

Magazine reviews tend to have very similar formats - set out clearly in columns; with a large title (subtitles are often used on full page spreads), stars indicating the amount the magazine rewarded the film and at least one photo. Empire Magazine and Rolling Stone movies are two well-known examples, though most magazines feature some links to film. They tend to be very clear, with smart black text and a subtle background; as well as often being written in a chatty, conversational tone. Reviews tend to be done in the style of the magazine, rather than the style of the film - though they are still presented so that the genre is clear to its reader. Although this if often the case, however, it is somewhat dependent on the success and type of film. 

Short films, rather than mainstream movies, are often only a few lines long or a paragraph in length. Feature films can take up two or more pages and go in to more detail and, in some cases, have an interview from one of the actors. Photos (posed, from behind the scenes or on set) can take up entire pages and are used to capture the excitement of the film.