As life does so often, it changes. Change is a normal part of being a human, and I'm particularly excited for one upcoming change in my life:
I'm going to be a dad!
Baby boy Rath is due in December of this year and my wife, Molly, and I couldn't be more excited. Our dog, Barley, probably doesn't know what's about to hit him, but we'd like to think he's excited too.
With that change - and some other factors - I have made the difficult decision that I'll be retiring Rath's Reviews at the end of 2024.
It's a difficult decision because I feel sad about it, but there's a peace with it too. Rath's Reviews takes a lot of time to keep in motion. Finding movie times, traveling to the theater, writing a review, posting to social media...it all takes its toll no matter how enjoyable the movies have been. I've found myself stressing in recent years to maintain balance of everything in my life, particularly with a demanding career, which led to helpful band-aids like Rapid Reviews.
However, with a baby on the way, it feels like the appropriate time to close one chapter as another opens. Out of my [arguably too many] hobbies, I wanted to keep writing the most, so you'll still be able to follow me on jtrath.com, slow as my progress may be.
What will "the end" look like, exactly? I haven't decided yet. Some of that may come down to when our little dude makes his debut. I know I'd love to have a final Rath Awards, and maybe an all-encompassing look-back since I started this in 2011 (holy s**t!), but those may get truncated or delayed if life gets too hectic.
For now, let's enjoy the rest of the 2024 year together as there are many exciting movies on the horizon! And as always, THANK YOU to all who have shown support throughout the years. It is not lost on me how cool it has been to be able to do this.
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| Yes, that's his actual paw size |
Congrats my man!! Exciting new chapter. Sad to see you go. I've lurked here for 8 years now lol. I too movie blogged for a while and had to give it up for new hobbies. Like you said, its time consuming and I found it almost a hassle and would lessen my interest in the movie itself knowing I had to come home, type up a long review, format it, post, etc.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, sad to see you go. I liked your reviews and even more so, the yearly awards. I think you should definitely do a top 10 awards post. Maybe top 10 movies of the decade, top 10 horror movies of the decade, Top 10 movies you've ever reviewed, 10 worst movies you've watched, etc. We cinephiles sure do love our "top 10 lists" haha.
Congrats again
Wow, thanks so much for the kind words! They mean a lot.
DeleteI hear you - sometimes it feels like it can be a chore, especially if the movie is forgettable.
There will definitely be some final posts. Hopefully a final Rath Awards and I like the idea of a "My Favorite Things" post or 2. Thanks again!
Sad to see you go my freind. I too have hung around a bit. Fun, short/sweet write ups. I think you should go out with a bang. Some fun lists if you are into tht sort of thing! Cheers!
ReplyDeleteThanks, I appreciate these comments a ton. I definitely will get some great lists together before I head out, I agree!
DeleteMan I'm gonna miss your reviews. I've followed Raths Reviews for what feels like forever now and it's always the first place I go when I am wondering about a new movie. I apricate all the time you have put into this. Congrats on the Baby! If your parenting is anything like your writing, I am sure you will be a fantastic Father.
ReplyDeleteWOW! Thank you! One can only hope I could be that good. Thanks for all the support throughout the years!
DeleteI've been reading your stuff for year's! I always set aside time for your year end lists, and I agree with the other comments that some decade or all-time type lists would be an awesome way to close out. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Great to continue getting comments like this. I'll definitely be making time for some OVERALL best lists. Appreciate all the support throughout the years!
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