THE LAST CRITIC explores the life and legacy of Robert Christgau, the self-proclaimed “Dean of American Rock Critics.” Christgau helped invent modern music criticism in 1967 while covering the Monterey Pop Festival for Esquire, then redefined the form with his iconic Consumer Guide at The Village Voice. Over five decades, he produced 18,000 letter-graded capsule reviews—a prolific output that continues today on Substack. Beyond his sharp-witted writing, Christgau was a transformative writer and editor who championed not just the punk of CBGB, but the funk of George Clinton and the soul of Al Green. Now in his eighties, Bob remains a vital force, writing with undiminished vigor from the NYC apartment he shares with his wife and fellow writer Carola Dibbell. Director Matty Wishnow reveals the legendary critic’s continuing desire to connect the music to the people.
Winner of a Special Jury Award at SXSW 2026.
“… inspirational beyond belief.” — Rolling Stone
Director Matty Wishnow is scheduled to attend on Wednesday, June 10.