Joe Morgenstern, the revered American writer and retired film critic, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and journalism, but many are left wondering about the man behind the insights. Born on October 3, 1932, in New York City, Joe Morgenstern has had a remarkable journey in the world of film critique.
Morgenstern’s illustrious career spanned several decades, and it’s not just about his age but also about the wealth of experience and wisdom he brought to his work. He commenced his career as a film critic for Newsweek in 1965, a role he held until 1983. During this period, he made a memorable move when he initially panned the iconic “Bonnie and Clyde.” However, in a rare display of intellectual honesty, he reconsidered his opinion and retracted it in the very next issue. This incident not only showcased his commitment to the art of cinema critique but also turned into a golden marketing opportunity for Warner Brothers, effectively attracting interest in the film.
From 1983 to 1988, he continued his remarkable journey by writing a column for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner, expanding his influence on the West Coast. His writings also graced the pages of esteemed publications such as CNBC, The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, Esquire, the Columbia Journalism Review, and the Los Angeles Times Magazine. Morgenstern’s commitment to the art of film critique led him to co-found the National Society of Film Critics, an organization dedicated to promoting the craft.
Morgenstern’s contributions to the entertainment industry extended 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 appeared 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, Joe 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 remarkable 27-year journey with the newspaper. During this time, 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.
While it’s evident that Joe Morgenstern’s age, now at 91, has given him a depth of perspective that few can match, his legacy transcends mere numbers. 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 celebrate his remarkable career, we also celebrate the ageless passion for cinema that has defined his life and work.