Rex Reed, Provocative Film Critic, Dies at 87

Rex Reed, a film critic renowned for his acerbic and often controversial critiques, passed away on Tuesday at his Manhattan residence, aged 87.

Career Beginnings and Impact

Reed's longtime friend, William Kapfer, confirmed his death, although the cause remains undisclosed. Reed emerged in the 1960s, part of a new wave of critics like Pauline Kael, who offered vibrant alternatives to the traditional film criticism of the time. This period coincided with a transformative phase in cinema, as the old studio system gave way to more daring and dynamic filmmaking.

Writing Style and Influence

Reed's articles and profiles appeared in major outlets including The New York Times, GQ, Esquire, and Vogue. His work provided candid insights into Hollywood and Broadway icons such as Peter Fonda, Barbra Streisand, Ava Gardner, and Buster Keaton. His writings were compiled in several books, starting with "Do You Sleep in the Nude?" These pieces are noted for their frankness, contrasting with the often sanitized portrayals by publicists today.

Controversial Opinions

For over forty years, Reed penned a column for the New York Observer, frequently stirring controversy. He was involved in perpetuating the rumor that Jack Palance mistakenly awarded Marisa Tomei her Oscar, and criticized Marlee Matlin's Oscar win as a "pity vote." His reviews sometimes crossed into offensive territory, notably with remarks about the film "Oldboy" and actress Melissa McCarthy, which sparked significant backlash online.

Legacy in Criticism and Media

While Reed's critiques could be harsh, he rejected the label of crankiness. In a 2018 New York Times profile, he stated, "I like just as many films as I dislike. But I think we’re drowning in mediocrity." He emphasized his efforts to elevate public appreciation for quality cinema. Additionally, Reed's presence extended into acting, with roles in "Myra Breckinridge," "Superman," and "Irreconcilable Differences," and frequent appearances on talk shows like "The Dick Cavett Show" and "The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson."