Before summer movies hit the screen, the Michigan Movie Critics Guild has once again opened up applications for membership. Entering into its second year the Michigan Movie Critics Guild (MMCG) is set to take the Michigan movie scene by storm.
“This is a crucial time for cinema. Last year, we saw that films like Barbie and Oppenheimer could still capture the public’s attention. But for every billion-dollar success, there are many quality films that fly under the radar, especially in an era of streaming services and dwindling theatrical attendance. Critics remain important advocates for films that might be otherwise passed over and play a vital role in enhancing the conversation about the art form.” Chris Williams, publisher of Chrisicisms and co-host of the “We’re Watching Here” podcast
MMCG’s inaugural year welcomed 11 critics, who cover films for a variety of outlets across the state. From websites to newspapers and podcasts to YouTube, they capture the diversity of the field and bring a range of expertise, outlooks, and tastes.
“Last year’s membership was a testament to the love of film in Michigan. Even with a bit of a slowdown, post-pandemic theaters continue to fill up every week for anticipated movies and franchises. Our member’s interests vary so greatly, that their reviews and coverage give a great look at the overall interest of our state and area,” said board member Becky Fixel, who writes for Week99er and co-host of Gilding the Lily – Another Film Critic Podcast. “The film industry is still feeling the effects from last year’s strikes, but the passion for movies and storytelling is still strong.”
Last year’s lineup included:
- Nate Adams, TheOnlyCritic and The Clinton Local
- Mark Eaton, Movie Reelist
- George Elkind, Detroit Metro Times and Pride Source
- Becky Fixel, Week99er and Gilding the Lily – Another Film Critic Podcast
- Christopher George, Spoiler Free Movie Sleuth
- Michelle Kisner, Spoiler Free Movie Sleuth
- Perry Seibert, WLBY and the “We’re Watching Here” podcast
- John Serba, Decider
- MontiLee Stormer, MovieReelist and Gilding the Lily – Another Film Critic Podcast
- Carl Wheeler, The Reel Godfather
- Chris Williams, CinemaNerdz, Chrisicisms and the “We’re Watching Here” podcast
“I’m beyond thrilled with the MMCG’s inaugural year” said Nate Adams, board member who writes for TheOnlyCritic.com and The Clinton Local. “The level of engagement we received from the public, our own members, and the studios who released the films we championed exceeded even my most optimistic expectations. 2024 is going to be exciting for a number of reasons as studios and streamers will have to get creative as the backlog of strike related shutdowns has slowed the content pipeline. Which has allowed more scrappy, independent driven films like this year’s sensational Hundreds of Beavers to really stand out in the crowd. I can’t wait to see what films our guild will rally behind.”
The MMCG is a collective of film critics committed to enhancing and furthering the conversation about cinema and further establishing the state’s reputation as a film-loving community. The season will culminate this fall with the announcement of the guild’s selections for the best of the year in movies in a variety of categories, including a Michigan-specific award. The group also hopes to host panels, screenings, and other events to commemorate awards season and generate enthusiasm for film across the state.
This year’s award categories will include:
- Best Picture
- Best Director
- Best Actress
- Best Actor
- Best Supporting Actress
- Best Supporting Actor
- Best Animated Film
- Best Documentary
- Best Ensemble
- Best Screenplay (Adapted or Original)
- Breakthrough Award
- Best Stunt
- The MMCG Award for Film Excellence (presented to a filmmaker, writer, actor, crew member etc. who has Michigan ties or to a film made in Michigan)
This year’s voting deadlines, which are subject to change, are:
- Deadline for screening to be eligible: Dec. 5
- Voting:
- Ballots due by 7 p.m. Dec. 4
- Nominations announced Dec. 1
- Ballots for winners due by 5 p.m. Dec. 8
Winners will be announced on the guild’s social media channels and with a press release at noon on Dec. 9th
“2023 saw an exciting flurry of expected and surprise nominations from the Guild. Upon announcement of our winners, we were thrilled to see actors, directors, and studios share the news among their socials. We’re small but mighty!” says board member MontiLee Stormer, Movie Reelist
Michigan film critics interested in applying can apply on the MMCG Website now. (Membership applications are now closed)
Information about the MMCG and its members is available on its website. For further information or to request member contact information please email michiganmoviecritics@gmail.com.