Start. Don't look back. If at the end it doesn't meet your hopes, start again. Now you know more about your hopes

Start. Don't look back. If at the end it doesn't meet your hopes, start again. Now you know more about your hopes

Roger Ebert, the renowned film critic, was known for his insightful reviews and unwavering passion for cinema. He lived by the mantra of "Start. Don't look back. If at the end it doesn't meet your hopes, start again. Now you know more about your hopes." This philosophy not only guided his approach to critiquing films but also served as a guiding principle in his life.

Ebert believed in taking risks and not being afraid to start anew. He understood that failure was a natural part of the creative process and that it was through failure that one could learn and grow. Ebert's career was a testament to this belief, as he was not afraid to voice his opinions, even if they were unpopular. He was willing to start fresh with each new review, knowing that each experience would only deepen his understanding of his own hopes and expectations.

Ebert's approach to criticism was rooted in his deep love for cinema. He saw film as a powerful medium for storytelling and believed that it had the ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in its audience. Ebert's reviews were not just about evaluating the technical aspects of a film; they were also about capturing the essence of the human experience portrayed on screen. He understood that each film was a unique opportunity to explore different perspectives and to challenge his own preconceived notions.

Ebert's mantra of starting fresh and not looking back can be seen in his own life as well. In 2002, Ebert was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, which eventually led to the loss of his lower jaw and his ability to speak. Despite this devastating setback, Ebert continued to write and review films, using a computerized voice to communicate his thoughts. He did not let his illness define him or hold him back; instead, he embraced it as a new beginning, a chance to learn more about himself and his hopes.