Number things with first, second, third, etc. If you can avoid it in writing, do so. If you show us why something is interesting, you're doing your job. These are OK in informal situations, but in formal academic prose, substitute somewhat, rather or slightly. Remember, when you do use these words, that lots of something countable are plural.
Lazy writing begins with lazy verbs.
Active voice mandates the use of active verbs. Avoid these verbs at all costs. Movies of a violent nature are probably just violent movies. In formal papers, avoid using all contractions. In other words, redundant.