“Have You Seen . . . ?”: A Personal Introduction to 1,000 Films

By David Thomson

I purchased this book as a reference guide because it was written by one of the most respected critics in the field today. The book contains 1,000 short essays on a wide variety of films, and as its subtitle suggests, it doesn’t solely focus on “critic’s films” or works you’d typically study in a film course. Instead, it offers a diverse cross-section of films, spanning from high art to popular cinema, and even includes some guilty pleasures.

While I haven’t yet read the book cover to cover, I’ve found myself frequently dipping in and out of it. Every time I do, I discover valuable insights into how a critic perceives and interprets films. It’s fascinating to see how even the most seemingly unassuming movies are dissected and discussed with depth and nuance.

What I’ve particularly appreciated is the balance the book strikes—it doesn’t feel elitist or overly academic, yet it challenges you to think critically about film in new ways. It’s not just a list of recommendations; it’s a window into the thought process of a seasoned critic. The essays provide context, analysis, and a perspective that helps me better understand why certain films resonate, why others provoke controversy, and how different genres and styles impact their audiences.

For me, the book has been an invaluable resource, not only for discovering films I might not have considered watching but also for learning how to articulate my own thoughts about the movies I see. It’s a reminder that every film, whether highbrow or mainstream, has something to offer if you look at it through the right lens.