When writing a movie review in English, the placement of your byline (the credit line that identifies the author) follows standard journalistic and publishing conventions. The exact location can vary depending on the platform, format, and intended audience. This guide will break down the common practices for placing your name on a movie review, ensuring your work is properly credited and looks professional.

1. Standard Placement in Online Articles and Blogs

For most online publications, blogs, and digital magazines, the byline is placed at the very beginning of the article, right under the headline and above the main body of the review. This is the most common and recognizable format for digital content.

Why this placement?

  • Immediate Attribution: It immediately tells the reader who wrote the review, which is crucial for building a personal brand or a reputation as a critic.
  • Reader Trust: Seeing a familiar or trusted name can encourage a reader to engage with the content.
  • SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Including the author’s name helps search engines associate the content with a specific person or entity, which can improve search rankings over time.

Example Structure:

# The Cinematic Masterpiece That Redefined Sci-Fi

**By Jane Doe**  <-- This is the standard byline placement
*Published: October 26, 2023*

The film opens with a breathtaking shot of a desolate Martian landscape...

In this example, “By Jane Doe” is placed directly under the title. Some publications might use a slightly different format, such as:

  • By Jane Doe
  • Jane Doe
  • Review by Jane Doe
  • A review by Jane Doe

The key is that it appears before the actual review content begins.

2. Placement in Print Publications (Newspapers & Magazines)

In traditional print media, the byline placement is slightly different and often more formal.

A. Newspapers

In newspapers, the byline is typically placed at the end of the article. This is a long-standing convention in journalism.

Why this placement?

  • Focus on the News: The primary goal is to deliver the news or information first. The author’s identity is secondary to the content itself.
  • Space and Layout: Print layout is complex, and placing the byline at the end gives editors more flexibility.

Example Structure:

...and in the final scene, the protagonist's sacrifice leaves the audience with a profound sense of hope and melancholy.

---

By Jane Doe
Jane Doe is a freelance film critic for The Daily Chronicle.

B. Magazines

Magazines offer more flexibility. The byline can be found in several places:

  • At the beginning of the article: Similar to online articles, especially in feature stories or opinion pieces.
  • In a byline box: A small, distinct box at the top of the first page that includes the author’s name, and sometimes their title or a brief bio.
  • At the end of the article: Just like in newspapers.

Example Structure (Magazine Feature):

[Page Layout: A large photo from the movie is on the left, text is on the right]

The New Wave of French Cinema
---------------------------------

By Jane Doe

The lights dim in the small, independent theater in Paris's Latin Quarter...

3. Placement in Academic or Formal Reviews

If you are writing a movie review for an academic journal, a university paper, or a formal publication, the conventions are stricter and prioritize clarity and citation.

The byline is almost always placed at the top of the first page, but it is often accompanied by more information.

Why this placement?

  • Academic Integrity: It clearly identifies the author and their institutional affiliation, which is crucial for credibility and peer review.
  • Formality: This format adheres to the rigorous standards of academic writing.

Example Structure:

Journal of Film and Media Studies, Volume 45, Issue 3

A Critical Analysis of "Blade Runner 2049" and its Philosophical Underpinnings

Jane Doe
Department of Film Studies, University of Anytown
jane.doe@university.edu

Abstract: This review examines the thematic depth and visual storytelling...

4. Placement on Social Media and Short-Form Platforms

When sharing a review on platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, or Letterboxd, the concept of a “byline” changes. Your name is already part of your profile, but you should still explicitly credit yourself.

A. Twitter (X)

You can either:

  • Include it in the post: “My review of Dune: Part Two: [link] - By Jane Doe”
  • Rely on your profile: Your username and display name serve as the byline. The review itself is the content of the tweet or a thread.

B. Instagram

  • In the caption: Start the caption with “Review by [Your Name]” or “My take on…”
  • On the image: Use a photo-editing app to place your name or handle directly on the image you’re sharing (e.g., a still from the movie).

C. Letterboxd / Goodreads

These are dedicated review platforms. Your name is automatically attached to your review because it’s tied to your user profile. The platform’s design inherently handles the byline for you.

5. Key Considerations and Best Practices

Regardless of where you place your name, keep these best practices in mind:

  • Consistency is Key: If you are writing for a blog or publication, always use the same byline format. This builds brand recognition.
  • Be Clear and Concise: Avoid overly clever or confusing bylines. “By Jane Doe” is perfect.
  • Consider a Tagline or Bio: For blogs or online magazines, adding a short, one-line bio under your name can add authority. For example: “By Jane Doe, a critic with over 10 years of experience covering independent film.”
  • Check the Style Guide: If you are writing for a specific publication, always check their style guide. They will have explicit rules on byline placement and format. This is the most important rule when writing for others.

Conclusion

In short, the most common place for your name on an English movie review is at the top, right under the title. However, the correct placement depends heavily on the medium. For print, it’s often at the end. For academic work, it’s at the top with more formal details. For social media, it’s integrated into the post or image. Always consider your platform and audience to ensure your name is placed professionally and effectively.