Whenever the review embargo lifts for a new blockbuster, critics like me tweet our reactions. But you know who else does? Ben Mekler, a television writer who hasn't seen the film but pretends to be a critic and writes in the same authoritative tone, except he adds nonsensical plot points and other deranged weirdness that isn't in the movie at all. And, amazingly, people fall for this. Again and again. It's never not hilarious.
For the relaunch of MEL, I spoke with Ben about fan-boy culture, being known for one really good ongoing joke, and the state of online film criticism. It was a great chat, which you can read here.
