Guy Lodge Appointed as Variety’s Chief Film Critic

Film critic Guy Lodge has been appointed as the new Chief Film Critic for Variety. He has contributed to the magazine since 2011 and now works alongside fellow critic Owen Gleiberman. Lodge’s role will include reviewing major studio films, arthouse projects, and covering international film festivals. He will operate from London, where he has been based for some time.

Background on Guy Lodge

Lodge takes over the position from Peter Debruge, who concluded a notable 20-year career at Variety in February 2023. Debruge has since taken on the role of director for the SXSW Film & TV Festival. Guy Lodge is not only known for his work at Variety but also as a weekly film columnist for The Observer, a position he has held since 2013.

Professional Contributions

His critical work has also been featured in various esteemed publications, including:

• The Guardian
• Sight & Sound
• Vanity Fair
• Rolling Stone
• Los Angeles Times
• Newsweek
• Attitude magazine

Commitment to Film Criticism

Ramin Setoodeh, Variety’s co-president and co-editor in chief, praised Lodge’s contributions, stating that he has elevated the magazine’s film criticism significantly. Setoodeh emphasized that Lodge’s new position underscores Variety’s ongoing investment in film criticism, especially at global film festivals.

Lodge’s Perspective

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Lodge reflected on his journey with Variety. “Reviewing for Variety has been the honor of my critical career,” he stated. He affirmed his commitment to highlighting both popular blockbusters and lesser-known independent films.

Educational Background

Guy Lodge was born in Johannesburg and spent his formative years in South Africa, the UK, and the United States. He studied French and film studies at the University of the Witwatersrand before pursuing an MA in screenwriting at the London Film School. His career in film journalism began with the website In Contention.

Current Roles

In addition to leading film criticism at Variety, Lodge holds several key positions in the film industry. He is the vice chair of the London Film Critics’ Circle, chairs the nomination committee for the British Independent Film Awards, and is a voting member of BAFTA.

Guy Lodge’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Variety as he continues to champion film criticism on a global scale.