Joe Morgenstern, the distinguished American film critic known for his astute reviews and thoughtful insights, has officially retired after leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema and journalism. Morgenstern, born on October 3, 1932, in New York City, brought a unique perspective to his work that transcended mere movie reviews.
Morgenstern’s illustrious career spanned several decades and left an indelible legacy in the realm of film criticism. He began his journey in the world of cinema as a film critic for Newsweek from 1965 to 1983. During his tenure, he made a memorable move when he initially panned the iconic “Bonnie and Clyde.” However, in a rare about-face, he reconsidered his opinion and retracted it in the very next issue. This reversal not only showcased his integrity as a critic but also turned into a golden marketing opportunity for Warner Brothers, effectively attracting interest in the film. This incident marked just one of many instances where Morgenstern’s opinions held considerable sway in the film industry.
From 1983 to 1988, he wrote a column for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner, expanding his influence on the West Coast. His writings also graced the pages of esteemed publications like CNBC, The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, Esquire, the Columbia Journalism Review, and the Los Angeles Times Magazine. In addition, Joe Morgenstern co-founded the National Society of Film Critics, an organization dedicated to promoting the art of cinema critique.
Morgenstern’s contributions to the entertainment industry went beyond the written word. He ventured into screenwriting, co-writing the 1976 television film “The Boy in the Plastic Bubble” and working on several episodes of the iconic television series “Law & Order.”
However, it was his role as the film critic for The Wall Street Journal that truly solidified his reputation. In May 1995, Morgenstern embarked on a new chapter in his career, offering his insights and reviews to the readers of The Wall Street Journal every Friday in the “Weekend & Leisure” section. Additionally, he covered the movie industry in a column that graced the pages every other Saturday. Morgenstern’s dedication and depth of knowledge were recognized when he was awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 2005, joining the elite ranks of critics like Roger Ebert and Stephen Hunter.
In 2022, Morgenstern decided to bid farewell to his illustrious career with The Wall Street Journal. His final column ran in print on April 29, marking the end of a 27-year journey with the newspaper. During this period, he also contributed his insightful reviews to the Los Angeles-area radio station KCRW, enriching the airwaves with his unparalleled expertise.
In his personal life, Morgenstern was married to actress Piper Laurie from 1962 until their divorce in 1982. The couple adopted one daughter, further underscoring his rich and varied life outside the world of cinema. As of 2015, Morgenstern called Santa Monica, California, his home.
Joe Morgenstern’s retirement is a poignant moment for the world of film criticism, as it marks the end of an era. His words, wisdom, and unerring eye for cinematic excellence will continue to influence both film enthusiasts and industry professionals for generations to come. As we bid farewell to this titan of film critique, we celebrate his extraordinary contributions and eagerly anticipate the lasting legacy he leaves behind.