Nerdly statement on ‘Charlie Shaw’s Revenge’ review dispute & Romford Horror Film Festival

Nerdly has always prided itself on honest, independent film criticism. That commitment to editorial integrity is the foundation of everything we publish, whether the review is glowing or critical.

Following a public screening of Charlie Shaw’s Revenge at February’s Romford Horror Film Festival, Nerdly published a review of the film. Shortly after publication, members of the filmmaking team contacted us requesting editorial changes to the piece.

To be clear, the screening in question was a publicly accessible festival screening. At no point prior to publication were we informed of any review embargo, nor were we asked to agree to one. No embargo terms were provided in writing, verbally, or through festival channels.

When Nerdly declined to alter the review, maintaining our long-standing policy of not allowing subjects to dictate or amend critical coverage, the filmmakers subsequently claimed that an embargo had been in place.

We requested clarification and documentation of the claimed embargo. None was provided.

Since then, the situation has escalated beyond a disagreement over criticism. We are aware that tensions arising from this have involved communication with the organisers of the festival, and we hope all parties can resolve matters professionally and constructively.

Film festivals, particularly independent genre festivals, rely on collaboration, goodwill and professional conduct from filmmakers and press alike. They provide crucial platforms for emerging voices and grassroots cinema. We believe disputes over independent criticism are best handled directly and professionally, without placing strain on festival relationships.

In this case, to protect the integrity of our relationship with the organisers of both the Romford Film Festival and Romford Horror Film Festival, we have altered the review, removing a minor spoiler. However, going forward, let us be absolutely clear:

• Nerdly will not remove, alter, or dilute editorial opinion at the request of filmmakers.
• We will always honour legitimate, clearly communicated embargoes.
• We will not accept retroactive claims of embargo after publication.
• We will not accept any attempts to involve festival organisers in disputes over independent critical coverage.

Criticism is not sabotage. Reviews are not marketing copy. Disagreement with a review does not justify attempts to apply undue pressure to press outlets or event organisers.

Nerdly remains committed to fair, honest and independent coverage. That will not change.

– The Nerdly Team