Story perspectives

Beloved Film Critic David Stratton Dies at 85

8/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

David Stratton, esteemed Australian film critic, died at 85, having authored over 25,000 critiques.
He co-hosted *The Movie Show* and *At the Movies* with Margaret Pomeranz for nearly 30 years.
Stratton directed the Sydney Film Festival from 1966 to 1983 and taught film history until 2023.
His family encourages fans to commemorate him by watching a favorite film, particularly *Singin' in the Rain*.

History

Historical Context

In 1966, the Sydney Film Festival was established, significantly shaping Australia's film culture. David Stratton, who directed the festival until 1983, contributed to over 25,000 critiques, influencing public perception of cinema. His long-standing collaboration with Margaret Pomeranz on *The Movie Show* and *At the Movies* helped popularize film criticism in Australia. Stratton's legacy underscores the importance of film as a cultural touchstone, encouraging future generations to engage with cinema meaningfully.

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Story summary

David Stratton, esteemed Australian film critic, died at 85, having authored over 25,000 critiques.
He co-hosted *The Movie Show* and *At the Movies* with Margaret Pomeranz for nearly 30 years.
Stratton directed the Sydney Film Festival from 1966 to 1983 and taught film history until 2023.
His family encourages fans to commemorate him by watching a favorite film, particularly *Singin' in the Rain*.

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