Full Name and Common Aliases

Roger Joseph Ebert, commonly known simply as Roger Ebert, was a towering figure in the world of film criticism. His name became synonymous with insightful and accessible movie reviews, and he was often affectionately referred to as "America's movie critic."

Birth and Death Dates

Roger Ebert was born on June 18, 1942, in Urbana, Illinois, and he passed away on April 4, 2013, in Chicago, Illinois.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Roger Ebert was an American film critic, journalist, and screenwriter. He was best known for his work as a film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times, a position he held for over four decades. Ebert was also a television personality, co-hosting several popular movie review shows.

Early Life and Background

Roger Ebert grew up in Urbana, Illinois, where he developed an early passion for writing and journalism. His father, Walter H. Ebert, was an electrician, and his mother, Annabel, was a bookkeeper. Ebert's love for movies began in his childhood, and he often recounted how he would spend afternoons at the local cinema. He attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he served as the editor of the student newspaper, The Daily Illini. Ebert's academic pursuits continued at the University of Cape Town on a Rotary Scholarship, and he later began a Ph.D. program at the University of Chicago, although he did not complete it.

Major Accomplishments

Roger Ebert's career as a film critic began in 1967 when he was hired by the Chicago Sun-Times. His insightful and often witty reviews quickly gained a following. In 1975, Ebert became the first film critic to win the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism, a testament to his exceptional ability to communicate the nuances of cinema to a broad audience. Ebert's influence extended beyond print; he co-hosted the television show "Sneak Previews" with Gene Siskel, which later evolved into "At the Movies". The show popularized the "thumbs up, thumbs down" rating system, which became a cultural touchstone.

Notable Works or Actions

Ebert's prolific output included thousands of film reviews, but he also authored numerous books, including "The Great Movies" series, which celebrated the most significant films in cinema history. His autobiography, "Life Itself," provided a candid look at his life and career, and it was later adapted into a documentary film. Ebert was also a screenwriter, having co-written the screenplay for the 1970 film "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls" with Russ Meyer.

Impact and Legacy

Roger Ebert's impact on film criticism is immeasurable. He democratized film criticism, making it accessible to the general public while maintaining a high standard of intellectual rigor. Ebert's reviews were characterized by their clarity, humor, and deep understanding of film as an art form. His ability to connect with audiences through both print and television helped elevate the role of the film critic in popular culture. Ebert's legacy continues through the annual Ebertfest, a film festival held in his honor, and through the continued influence of his reviews and writings.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Roger Ebert is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to articulate the emotional and intellectual impact of films. His reviews often contained memorable insights and observations that resonated with both casual moviegoers and cinephiles. Ebert's quotes are frequently cited because they encapsulate the essence of a film in a way that is both profound and accessible. His influence extends beyond his reviews; Ebert's advocacy for films that might otherwise have been overlooked helped bring attention to many important works. His legacy as a critic who championed the power of cinema to inspire, challenge, and entertain ensures that his words continue to be quoted and celebrated by film lovers around the world.