A movie (also known as a film or a motion picture) is a piece of visual art that uses sound and images to tell stories. It can be entertaining, educational or thought-provoking. Movies can be based on real events or imaginary, and can have many genres like comedy, drama, action, horror, science fiction or romance.
The movie industry started in the late 19th century when inventors like Thomas Edison and the Lumiere brothers developed early motion picture cameras. One of the first movies, Workers Leaving the Lumiere Factory (1895), was a simple recording of workers leaving a factory but it showed the potential of this new form of cinema.
Most movies try to make the audience laugh (comedies), feel sad or scared (dramas) or excited or happy (action, thrillers). Sometimes, a movie can combine two genres, like horror-comedies. Movies may also have a political message or be about sports, history or science.
Movies can be fiction or non-fictional and can range in length from under ten minutes to over three hours. Movies often have music and sets (man-made places) in the background to add to the emotions the story makes you feel.
To make a good movie review, it is important to understand the genre of the film you are reviewing and who you will be writing for. A general summary of the film is helpful and you can then discuss the film’s content, direction and cinematography. A film’s content may include a complex plot, interesting characters or a fascinating setting.