Philip Neville French (28 August 1933 – 27 October 2015) was one of Britain’s most respected film critics and broadcasters.
Early Life and Education
French was born in Liverpool in 1933. He studied law at Oxford University and later pursued journalism at Indiana University in the United States. His time in America gave him deep insights into both Hollywood cinema and American culture, which became central to his later work.
Career in Journalism and Broadcasting
Philip French began his career in journalism working for the Times Literary Supplement and The Observer. From 1978 until his retirement in 2013, he was chief film critic for The Observer, becoming one of the most trusted voices in British film criticism.
He was admired for his wide knowledge of film history, his elegant writing style, and his ability to connect cinema with wider cultural, political, and historical themes. In addition to print, French also worked in broadcasting, presenting and producing programmes for BBC Radio.
Publications
French wrote several influential books, including works on Westerns and on film directors. His writing helped introduce generations of readers to world cinema, classic Hollywood, and European auteurs.
Honours and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions to film criticism, he was appointed OBE in 2013. Philip French retired later that year, leaving behind a legacy of thoughtful, witty, and deeply knowledgeable criticism. He passed away in 2015, but his work continues to be celebrated by film scholars, critics, and enthusiasts.
