Philip Bagnall is a London‑based film critic whose work spans reviews, interviews, and festival coverage across several respected outlets, including Loud and Clear Reviews, Next Best Picture, HeadStuff, FILMHOUNDS Magazine, and Scannain. A member of the Film Critics Association UK, he has built a reputation for sharp analysis, eclectic taste, and a willingness to champion both emerging filmmakers and overlooked gems. His writing blends cinephile depth with accessible clarity, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary film criticism.

Before establishing his multi‑platform presence, Bagnall contributed to a wide range of publications and podcasts, including The 250 Podcast, where he brings his analytical style to long‑form discussions of cinema. His portfolio reflects a global perspective shaped by attending major festivals such as Cannes, Venice, the BFI London Film Festival, and the Dublin International Film Festivalcynicalfilm.com. Whether covering prestige dramas, experimental indies, or genre oddities, he approaches each film with curiosity and a commitment to contextual, thoughtful critique.

Alongside his freelance criticism, Bagnall serves as Reviews Editor for Scannain and works as a Research Grants Officer at Goldsmiths, University of London. His online presence — under the handle @CynicalFilm — showcases his ongoing engagement with film culture, from festival reporting to in‑depth reviews and interviews. Today, he continues to expand his body of work across international outlets, contributing to the evolving conversation around cinema with insight, enthusiasm, and a critic’s eye for detail.