I remember first getting into film criticism when I was in elementary school. My grandpa, a big  cinephile, would come over on weekends and watch movies with me. This was of course not without his persistent commentary over most scenes, which could stretch a two-hour film an hour longer. He introduced me to Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa with films like Seven Samurai (1954), dissected the trailer of Skyfall (2012) with me, and introduced me to Do the Right Thing (1989)—now one of my all-time favorites. When I got older, my interest in cinema grew, and I started to explore more films from the directors my grandpa introduced me to. I started to look into films such as Yojimbo (1961), Dr. No (1962), The Manchurian Candidate (1962), and Taxi Driver (1976). My taste in cinema was broadening, and with it, my understanding of the art form.  

The reason I am passionate about cinema now is because my grandfather showed me what he loved when I was young. His appreciation and genuine passion for the art was what sparked my own interest in complex storytelling and film. I promise you that if you talk about what you love, then people will take interest and at least pay attention to what you are saying. So, when you see a movie out there that you can’t stop thinking about, share it—and make sure to share it with passion.