Final answer:
The correct word to fill in the blank is 'scathing,' which means bitterly severe and fits the context of the sentence, suggesting the critic's reviews are harsh but based on rational analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct word to complete the sentence 'Although that critic is feared for _____ reviews, I have learned that there is usually a sound basis for her unfavorable judgements.' is scathing. This word means bitterly severe and is often used to describe a review that is harsh and critical in a rigorous analytical manner. In contrast, 'lenient' would be inappropriately mild, 'ambiguous' would imply her judgments are unclear, which is not supported by the context, and 'superficial' would suggest her reviews lack depth, contradicting the statement about a sound basis for judgments.
Critics like Michiko Kakutani, who maintained an air of mystery and credibility, exemplify the qualities of a critical reviewer. Reviews, such as those conducted by Siskel and Ebert, demonstrate the influence and importance of a critic's honest and objective evaluation, also highlighted by platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes.