:(

"In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so." - Anton Ego, Ratatouille

This is the only part of Ratatouille I've always disagreed with. Criticism, when it's done well, is a form of art all of its own, and just as valid as anything else. It takes passion and creativity to produce accurate, entertaining reviews. If ever proof is needed of that, we only need to look at the work of the late great Mr Ebert.

You will be hugely missed, sir.