Dear Readers,

A deep focus in filmmaking presents the image’s entire depth of field in sharp clarity. When I launched Deep Focus Review (DFR) in 2007, I set out to do something similar. I wanted to write about movies the way I like to read about them, with attention to what’s on screen, but also to how the film was made, who made it, and what was going on in the world around it.

I think movies mean more when you know that context. My goal isn’t just to help you decide what to watch; it’s to help you see films differently and enjoy them more, whether you’re new to movies or you’re a lifelong cinephile.

If DFR introduces you to a great film, or helps you see one in a new way, I’ve done my job.

A note on spoilers: my reviews are more in-depth than a typical recommendation. In new release reviews, I’ll warn you before discussing a plot twist. But generally, I recommend reading my reviews after you see the movie. In The Definitives, my essay series on classic films, I go into full detail, so expect the whole story.

Thanks for reading, and happy viewing!

Brian Eggert
Critic, Essayist, Founder

Brenda Harvieux
Editor

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Brian Eggert is a national award-winning film critic and scholar.

Brian is Tomatometer-Approved and belongs to several critical and scholarly associations: the Society for Cinema and Media Studies, Minnesota Film Critics Association, Online Film & Television Association, International Film Society Critics, National Coalition of Independent Scholars, and the Large Association of Movie Blogs.

Additionally, Brian is a member of the Independent Film Critics of America; in 2024, they honored him with the Critic of the Year Award.

Brian lives in Minnesota with his wife, Brenda Harvieux (DFR’s copy editor). He is an occasional programmer and regularly appears on KARE 11, the NBC affiliate in the Twin Cities, and Minnesota’s rock station KQRS 92.5 FM, to review and talk about movies.

A lifelong cinéphile, Brian holds a Master’s degree in Film Studies from Tiffin University, which recognized him with the 2018 Award of Excellence in Graduate Education. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Art History from the University of Minnesota, with minors in Studies in Cinema & Media Culture and Cultural Studies & Comparative Literature.