A.S. Hamrah: Chronicling Cinema’s Crisis and the Rise of the Critic

In an era defined by media consolidation, technological disruption, and a perceived decline in intellectualism, film critic A.S. Hamrah has emerged as a vital voice. His work, appearing in publications like n+1, Bookforum, Harper’s, and the Criterion Collection, offers a rigorous and uncompromising perspective on the state of cinema and the film industry.

A New Collection of Essays

Hamrah’s recent publications, Last Week in End Times Cinema and The Algorithm of the Night, collect select pieces of his film writing from the past six years. These books, alongside his earlier work, The Earth Dies Streaming: Film Writing, 2002-2018, function as historical documents, witnessing the degradation of the art form while also championing independent and underground cinema. Algorithm of the Night, published in 2025, assembles essays and reviews, presenting a powerful alternative to a culture saturated with publicity and stale conventions.

The Changing Landscape of Cinema

Hamrah identifies a growing consolidation of studio power leading to increasingly infantile films. He distinguishes between “cinema” and the “Hollywood film industry,” arguing that the latter has prioritized commercial interests over artistic merit, particularly since the 1990s with the rise of franchises like Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He also points to the destructive impact of streaming services on theatrical exhibition, suggesting it’s a deliberate goal of the studios.

Navigating Industry Shifts and Auteurs

Hamrah acknowledges the complexities of navigating the modern film industry, noting the challenges faced by filmmakers like Spike Lee, who have adapted to changing economic realities. While recognizing Lee’s survival instincts, Hamrah expresses a preference for Lee’s earlier, more independent work, such as She’s Gotta Have It. He also voices skepticism towards Apple Original Films, contrasting them with the more supportive approach of A24.

A24: A Point of Contention

Despite some criticism, Hamrah defends A24, arguing that its consistent output of quality films and support for auteurs sets it apart from the major studios, which he believes have become increasingly homogenous. He dismisses the “A24 derangement syndrome” as a form of resentment and expresses concern about the company’s recent foray into artificial intelligence.

The Role of the Critic in the Digital Age

Hamrah recognizes the increased access to cinematic knowledge through social media platforms like Letterboxd, but remains cautious about their reliability. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a critical distance and avoiding the pitfalls of online echo chambers. He believes that the core function of a film critic remains vital, offering a discerning perspective in an oversaturated media landscape.

From Semiotics to Cinema

Hamrah’s path to film criticism was unconventional, with a background in semiotic brand analysis for television and consumer goods. He served as a movie theater projectionist for seven years and produced the documentary Bunker, directed by Jenny Perlin. He credits his diverse experiences with providing a unique insight into the business and artistic aspects of the film industry.

The Future of Film and Criticism

Hamrah’s work suggests a critical require for thoughtful analysis and a defense of artistic integrity in an era of technological disruption and corporate dominance. He champions the importance of preserving the cinematic experience – particularly the communal aspect of viewing films in theaters – and resisting the forces that seek to commodify and dilute the art form. He currently works as the film critic at n+1 and is a member of the National Society of Film Critics.