Guuleed Ismail

Guuleed is an early-career writer focused on film and music journalism. Early this year, he was on jury duty as part of Perth Festival’s In the Frame critics initiative. His recent work has been published in VHS Tracking and Somersault Magazine. Other interests include: analog photography, book club, his cats and making online radio mixes.

Instagram: @guuismail

Letterboxd: @guuleed

Location: Boorloo/Perth

Movie location I call home: The bushes that Danson and Highsmith aim for in The Other Guys.

What was the film or experience that made you want to write about the screen? The honest answer is: after a few years of writing mini-reviews on Letterboxd, I watched John Wick: Chapter 4, and wouldn’t shut up about it the time.

Why do you think film criticism matters in 2026? Film discourse has rapidly diminished in the social media age. Everything is labelled as goated, mid or trash before moving on to the next thing. Criticism encourages people to use their words to make a case. It’s the fun and healthy thing to do.

Who is a critic that inspires you? Not a critic, but Vince Staples. One of my favourite artists, whose enthusiasm for film clearly influences his music. Check out his Criterion Closet visit.

In five words (or less), the future of cinema is: More safe, boring musician biopics.

What’s the best thing you’ve seen this year so far? Barry Lyndon! The painterly look Kubrick goes for is definitely worth the hype. Shout-out to 18th-century baroque and Luna Leederville for screening the film.

What’s your MIFF 2026 theme music? ‘Paradise Circus’ by Massive Attack.