As the expression of creative skill and a reflection of our society, various forms of art draw much comment, if not whole dissertations expounding on their merits, flaws and loan modification programs definition. What art is, and what makes for good and bad (if one can classify art as such) examples of art. As one of the most dominant and widely enjoyed art forms, film is often at the forefront of discussions. Accessed by the people who take part in their creation and those who view the finished work, this particular expression of art is one of the easiest stop snoring mouthpiece to share and explore. Every year countless movies are made in film industries all over the world. A number—outside big Hollywood productions—even enjoy international acclaim and box office success; gaining the former does not automatically mean enjoying the latter, and vice versa. Some films become fodder for endless critical discussions while some hardly make a blip in filmgoers and critics’ consciousness. Some even become the subject of controversy that overshadows the film itself. Overall, films have an impact on peoples’ lives whether they notice it or not. Judging a film’s merits, that’s a tough one; and no simple answer will suffice. On the one hand, it can be easily explained as something too subjective and therefore, nearly impossible to define in a simple and treasure metal detector neat statement; they like it or dislike for reasons they often cannot pinpoint. On the other, some advise that following a set of definite and pre-defined criteria can result in a fair assessment of a film’s quality—or lack of. Others, still, prefer a method combining both and hope to be able to clearly articulate why a film deserves their praise or derision. In layman’s terms, here are some markers for a good film. Entertainment value. This is the most common reason why people go and see movies, to find entertainment and perhaps, a temporary escape from their own realities. If, while watching, you feel pulled into the story and can barely wait to find out what happens next, that’s a good sign. If, on the other hand, it makes you feel like getting up and doing something else or make you nod off (and not just because you’re particularly tired or sleepy), that too, is a sign—and not a good one. Plot. Is the story plausible and easy to follow, or is it complex and unfamiliar? Either way, if it is an interesting premise that holds your gas tankless water heater attention, then it’s a plus. Acting. No matter how interesting a story is or how riveting the dialogue, ham acting will surely let the film down. Imagine an acting-chops deficient cutesy starlet and crossover “performer/entertainer” (e.g. a wrestler, or a musician) playing Clarice Starling and Hannibal Lecter respectively, and we’d have all been deprived of spine tingling and Academy Award winning performances. Visuals. Good art direction and cinematography are not only visual treats; they greatly impact the movement of the story. Everything, as in every little item or prop you see on the screen, is “designed” to be there, placed in the shot purposely. From the costumes, props, sets, composition, lighting, and even down to the blocking (the movement of the actors within the shot frame). Direction. A clear vision of how to convey the feeling or message and an effective and entertaining way of telling the story is what a director does. A screenplay with great actors and budget for all the trimmings may still fail if it does not have a capable director. Good direction is essential in getting from point A to point B. Without it, a film can flounder in limbo. These make up for some key element needed in a good film. Some films squeak by without some of the said elements, often by the strength of the others that they do have. Still, there are others that will just puzzle critics and moviegoers alike. One doesn’t even have to understand any of these elements to enjoy and recognize a good film. As mentioned from the top, sometimes, it’s all subjective.