About the Phoenix Film Critics Society

The Phoenix Film Critics Society is a tax-exempt,  not-for-profit, self-funded, independent organization consisting of  professional film critics and film journalists in Arizona. 

• To support film as an art form by recognizing outstanding achievement in cinema through our Annual Awards presentation;
  
• to assist Arizona film festivals with jury representation;
  
• to uphold the integrity and professionalism of the practice of film criticism;
  
• to foster, safeguard the interests of and provide professional support for its members.

Founded in October 2000 by David Ramsey and Roger Tennis. We started  with ten original members. The PFCS quickly gained attention from the  major film studios and independent film distributors. One of the reasons  for the recognition was that all members are established film critics  in Arizona.

“We felt that establishing the Society would generate recognition and  respect for the Phoenix area critics that other cities’ critics  currently enjoy,” said Ramsey. “Many of the award-worthy films open in  Phoenix after the fact, missing many of our top ten lists. With the  Society, we hope to ensure timely screenings of those films.”

“We wanted to put Phoenix on the short list of cities that are  important to the studios and independents,” added Tennis. “One of our  goals as a Society is to promote film in Arizona by helping to involve  the community in support of the motion picture as an art form.”