Pauline Kael, a renowned film critic, embarked on her journey in 1919, when she was born in Petaluma, California. She later pursued higher education at the University of California at Berkeley during the 1930s.
In her 20s, Kael attempted to establish herself as a playwright, but unfortunately, her endeavors were unsuccessful. This experience served as a catalyst for her to explore a new path, and she began writing film reviews as a freelance writer for film journals in the 1950s.
As her reputation grew, Kael's work gained national recognition in the 1960s, and she published her first book, "I Lost It At the Movies," which marked a significant milestone in her career. Her success led to her appointment as a film critic for The New Yorker in 1968, a position she held until 1991.
Throughout her illustrious career, Kael published 13 books comprising her essays and criticism. Her remarkable work earned her the National Book Award in 1974, a testament to her exceptional writing skills and dedication to her craft.
Even after retiring, Kael's influence and power in the film industry remained unparalleled. She continued to be a respected figure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Pauline Kael's remarkable life came to a close on September 3, 2001, but her legacy continues to inspire and educate film enthusiasts to this day.
