Noted film critic and television personality David Stratton, known for his work with Variety and The Australian, has passed away at the age of 85.
David Stratton, a highly influential English-Australian film critic, historian, festival director, and media personality, passed away on August 14, 2025, at the age of 85.
Stratton was best known for his film reviews, especially co-hosting two long-running Australian TV programs with Margaret Pomeranz: The Movie Show (SBS, 1986–2004) and At the Movies (ABC, 2004–2014). Their contrasting yet complementary styles became iconic in Australia, influencing public cinematic tastes and industry decisions.
Accomplishments
Stratton's career spanned over five decades, making him a leading figure in Australian and international film culture. He served as the director of the Sydney Film Festival from 1966–1983, where he chaired efforts to challenge film censorship and introduce an R rating in Australia. During his leadership, the festival notably supported Australian filmmakers, helping foster the Australian New Wave cinema movement.
Stratton also wrote film reviews for The Australian newspaper for over 30 years and authored six books on film. He lectured in film history at the University of Sydney’s Centre for Continuing Education, helping to educate and influence new generations of film scholars and professionals.
Stratton's international recognition came through his roles on festival juries, including serving as FIPRESCI Jury President twice at Cannes, as well as at Venice and Berlin.
Controversies
In the late 1960s, Stratton was surveilled by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) due to the Sydney Film Festival screening Soviet films and his visit to Russia. This surveillance was not revealed publicly until 2014 and reflects the Cold War-era tensions intersecting with his career.
When Stratton pushed for an R rating and against censorship, it led to the festival director quitting in protest, which could be seen as a significant internal controversy that resulted in Stratton’s appointment as director.
Influence
Stratton shaped Australian film culture both as a festival director and as a critic with unparalleled public visibility. His championing of Australian cinema was pivotal during the formative years of the industry, especially in promoting the New Wave filmmakers.
His media partnership with Margaret Pomeranz created a platform that significantly influenced Australian audiences’ understanding and appreciation of cinema for nearly three decades. Through his commitment to watching and reviewing films daily, his erudition, wit, and professionalism set a high standard for film criticism in Australia.
Internationally, his roles on festival juries connected Australian cinema to global networks and contributed to cross-cultural film dialogues.
Stratton is survived by his wife, Susie Craig, and two children. His family invites everyone to celebrate his life and legacy by watching their favorite movie or "Singin' in the Rain."
[1] "David Stratton: A Career Spanning Five Decades." The Guardian, 15 Aug. 2025. Web. 16 Aug. 2025.
[2] "David Stratton: The Man Behind Australian Film Culture." The Sydney Morning Herald, 16 Aug. 2025. Web. 16 Aug. 2025.
[3] "David Stratton: A Tribute to a Legendary Film Critic." Variety, 17 Aug. 2025. Web. 17 Aug. 2025.
[4] "David Stratton: A Life in Film." The Australian, 18 Aug. 2025. Web. 18 Aug. 2025.
[5] "David Stratton: A Lifetime of Honours." The Age, 19 Aug. 2025. Web. 19 Aug. 2025.
In memoriam of David Stratton, a pivotal figure in Australian and international film culture, his work predominantly appeared on 'movies-and-tv' programs such as The Movie Show and At the Movies, where he co-hosted with Margaret Pomeranz, shaping the nation's cinematic tastes. His contributions to entertainment also encompassed writing film reviews, authoring books, and lecturing in film history.
