A review is an informed appraisal of a work, product, service, or company. Reviews explain what the reviewer found important, assess strengths and weaknesses, and often help readers decide whether the subject is worth their time or money.
Common subjects of reviews
- Movies and other filmed entertainment
- Video games
- Musical compositions and recordings
- Books and other written works
- Automobiles and related products
- Home appliances
- Computers and consumer electronics
- Events, including live occasions such as a concert, a play, or a musical theatre production
- Dance performances and visual art shows such as an art exhibition
- Formal evaluations in law, for example when a higher court reviews a legal case decided by a lower court
How reviews are presented
Reviews may be written, recorded, or published as short summaries or detailed analyses. Authors range from professional critics working for newspapers, magazines, or broadcast outlets to independent bloggers and ordinary users posting opinions online. Many reviews include a simple summary judgment or a numeric/graphic rating (stars, points, grades) to indicate overall quality.
Purpose and effects
Beyond giving a verdict, reviews can provide context, describe salient features, compare the subject to alternatives, and suggest who might appreciate it. Consumer reviews can influence buying decisions and cultural conversations; judicial review, in the legal sense, can alter the outcome of a case through higher-court scrutiny.
Types of evaluation
- Descriptive — explains what the product or work contains and how it functions.
- Critical — evaluates artistic, technical, or practical merits and faults.
- Comparative — places the subject alongside similar items to highlight differences.
- Advisory — offers a recommendation tailored to particular audiences or uses.
Most reviews fall broadly into three tonal categories: positive, neutral, or negative. Good reviews support their judgments with evidence and clear reasoning so readers can judge how the opinion applies to their own needs.