The Reviews That Nearly Broke Me: Renny Harlin and Johanna Harlin

Episode SummaryDo film critics still matter?Renny and Johanna Harlin explore how film criticism has changed and how reviews can shape audience perceptions before they even see a movie.Drawing from more than 40 years of filmmaking, Renny reflects on his relationship with critics. He explains the value of criticism and the emotional impact harsh reviews can have on filmmakers who spend years creating a project.They discuss how commercial genres like action, horror, thriller, and comedy can be judged differently from art films. Renny also shares how filmmakers can become defined by their careers.The conversation turns to social media, where TikTok, Instagram, and online commentary can quickly shape the narrative around a film.Renny revisits films whose reputations changed over time, including Citizen Kane, Fight Club, The Greatest Showman, and his own Cutthroat Island. He also recalls the painful reviews of his first film, Born American, and how they were later turned into marketing.The episode closes with rapid-fire questions and advice for aspiring filmmakers. Renny reminds creators that they do not need everyone’s approval. Sometimes one person who believes in you is enough.What We CoverDo film critics still matter?Critics versus audiencesHow social media changed film criticismArt films versus commercial genre moviesWhy filmmakers get stuck in certain creative lanesRenny's experience producing Rambling RoseWhy action films can face different expectationsThe emotional impact of negative reviewsLearning from constructive criticismMovies that found appreciation laterCitizen Kane and Fight ClubRevisiting Cutthroat IslandWhy Johanna loves The Greatest ShowmanThe brutal reviews of Born AmericanTurning bad reviews into marketingRapid-fire questions about HollywoodAdvice for aspiring filmmakersFinding one person who believes in youChapters00:00 — Do Film Critics Still Matter?02:52 — What's Happening at Harlin House03:05 — Preparing Their Next Movie in Madrid04:15 — A Big Announcement Is Coming05:45 — Building Something That Lasts08:48 — Critics vs. Audiences09:30 — Art Films vs. Genre Movies13:05 — Renny on Rambling Rose15:26 — Why Renny Loves Action Filmmaking16:03 — How Filmmakers Get Labeled20:20 — Renny's Most Common Criticism21:25 — What Makes Criticism Fair?22:37 — Should Filmmakers Read Reviews?24:44 — The Social Media Critic Era28:39 — No Movie Has to Be Perfect29:30 — Movies Critics Got Wrong31:10 — Revisiting Cutthroat Island32:16 — The Greatest Showman33:18 — Renny's Most Painful Review34:43 — How Born American Survived the Critics36:07 — Critics, Influencers, and Moviegoers38:13 — 10 Rapid-Fire Questions39:37 — Advice for New Filmmakers40:48 — Final ThoughtsKey TakeawaysFilm critics still have value despite their changing influence.Social media can shape opinions before audiences see a movie.Genre filmmakers can face different expectations from critics.Harsh reviews can have a lasting emotional impact on creators.Constructive criticism can help filmmakers improve their work.A movie's original reception does not define its legacy.Critical, commercial, and cultural success can look very different.Filmmakers should keep creating despite negative opinions.One person who believes in your work can change your career.About Renny &amp; Johanna HarlinRenny Harlin is a filmmaker with more than 40 years of experience across Hollywood and international cinema. Johanna Harlin is a producer who works alongside Renny in developing and producing their projects.Through Harlin House, they share filmmaking stories, industry lessons, family life, and advice for the next generation of creators.Other Ways to Listen and Watch🎧 Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2rFGuoWsOr63u25wIP7wrH?si=