Today we’d like to introduce you to Preston Barta
Hi Preston, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into the world of film criticism began on Myspace, where I shared my weekly film review blurbs with friends and family. During this time, a radio producer from 92.5 KTFW-FM (an 1980s and ‘90s country music station out of Fort Worth) discovered my work and invited me to join their team in 2009. This opportunity allowed me to delve into writing full-length movie reviews and participate in Friday on-air morning discussions about the latest film releases. In 2014, I embraced a new role as the features editor for Fresh Fiction (FreshFiction.tv) based in Plano, focusing on film and television content. A year later, I started contributing to the Denton Record-Chronicle, my hometown newspaper, fulfilling a lifelong dream. This was particularly meaningful to me, as I had been inspired by the previous film critic, Boo Allen, to pursue film criticism and analysis in the first place. When Boo stepped down, I was honored to take over the movie column, a role I continue to hold, carrying on the legacy of local film criticism. In addition to my writing at Fresh Fiction and DRC, I also host three weekly podcasts: the Fresh Fiction Film & TV Podcast (a discussion of everything coming down the entertainment pike), My Bloody Podcast (dedicated to horror films), and Fear & Loathing in Cinema (which offers a fresh perspective on underappreciated or critically panned films).
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road toward becoming a film critic has been far from easy and continues to present ongoing challenges. I’ve encountered various hurdles along the way, but I have persevered and remained dedicated to my passion for film.
My initial foray into film criticism involved a great deal of persistence and determination. I eagerly sought out free word-of-mouth screenings, often traveling from Denton to Dallas to attend these events. These screenings operated on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring long hours of waiting with no guarantee of entry. Despite the uncertainty, I was determined to immerse myself in the experience and continued to attend these Dallas screenings until I secured a place on PR lists, allowing me to officially review films without the need to wait in line.
In today’s landscape, one of the most significant challenges I face is the struggle to maintain relevance as a film critic. The field has evolved considerably, and I now find myself competing with influencers, established podcasters, and YouTubers. This shift has transformed what was once a lucrative profession into a more demanding and competitive endeavor. While I currently maintain a day job in marketing to sustain myself, the pursuit of a full-time career in film journalism remains an uphill battle. Nonetheless, my unwavering passion for the art of criticism continues to drive me forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
While I continue to delve into film reviews through written or podcast forms, my true passion lies in the art of interviews and conversation. I find immense joy in interviewing filmmakers and acting talent, engaging in conversations that dissect the mechanics of a film narrative, character motivations, and poetic themes. These discussions often lead us to focus on seemingly insignificant elements, such as the framing of a camera in a shot or the nuances of dialogue that serve as extensions of the story and characters.
For instance, one of my favorite discussions I’ve had recently was with Oscar-nominated production designer Suzie Davies, who worked on Emerald Fennell’s well-watched “Saltburn” last year. There’s a scene in that film when its central character, played by Barry Keoghan, is featured with a bare back in a bathroom. The wallpaper in the background, which could represent the muscles of his body but also waves that are crashing over him, is a crucial element during a very pivotal moment in the story. Davies and I talked about creating the look of that scene and the challenge of making Keoghan’s character feel like he’s not a stranger in the house.
I’m proud of the collection of interviews I’ve conducted. It’s always my aim to have an honest, organic dialogue, and it can lead to some fun places where you get to better understand creatives.
Another source of pride for me is my critical accomplishments in 2024. I am thrilled to have my words featured on the back covers of physical movie releases on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-rays, and DVDs. “The Fall Guy,” “The Last Stop in Yuma County,” and “What You Wish For” all proudly display my Fresh Fiction quotes on their disc releases.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Being a husband and a father has really shaped how I view and write about film. I often flock toward films that deal with parenthood and relationships in some capacity. I find joy in discovering the wisdom these films hold, whether it’s something that’s applicable to life or reflective of it. I suppose that’s why I watch and enjoy a lot of Ethan Hawke and Richard Linklater’s cinematic works, such as the “Before” trilogy and “Boyhood.”
One aspect of my film journey that might surprise you is my transition from owning over 3,000 Blu-rays from boutique labels, mostly horror, to now primarily collecting horror on VHS. The VHS format is what initially sparked my love for the genre and film as a whole, and I’ve found myself drawn back to it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/prestonbarta
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluraydad/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdBlLSHUOnA&list=PLTfn4jmUlxle0q8jK_Aii4G7NhKC3JK0H
Image Credits
All photos are courtesy of Preston Barta
