Audiences look for guidance before they spend time or money on culture. A review is a critical assessment of a work of art, performance, book, restaurant, or product, combining description with evaluated judgment.

Reviewers bring subject knowledge and a consistent set of standards to their work. They describe enough for the reader to understand the object under discussion, then assess strengths and weaknesses. Disclosure of conflicts of interest is expected. Reviews are opinion, but they rest on accurate observation.

Arts and consumer journalism both rely on reviews. A thoughtful review can influence careers and commercial success; a careless one can mislead. Editors select reviewers for expertise and independence, and they distinguish review content clearly from advertising or sponsored material.

• Critical evaluation of cultural or consumer works
• Combines description with judgment
• Requires subject knowledge and independence
• Labeled as opinion distinct from news