Step 1: Analyzing the first blank
The sentence says: “Yet the change of attitude may be somewhat __________________.”
Since critics are now studying popular films seriously, the shift away from considering them inferior might be exaggerated.
The best fit is
“overstated” (3).
Step 2: Analyzing the second blank
The sentence continues: “Although, it is now academically respectable to analyse popular films, the fact that many critics feel compelled to rationalize their own __________________ action movies…”
Here, critics need to justify why they personally enjoy such films.
“Penchant for” (4), meaning a liking or strong tendency towards, is the best fit.
Other options like “dislike for” (5) or “investment in” (6) do not fit here.
Step 3: Analyzing the third blank
The phrase is: “…reveals, perhaps unwittingly, their continued __________________ the old hierarchy of popular and art films.”
The best fit is “investment in” (6).
This makes sense because even though critics claim to move beyond the hierarchy, their behavior shows they are still invested in it.
Step 4: Final sequence
1st blank = overstated (3)
2nd blank = penchant for (4)
3rd blank = investment in (6)
Final Answer: (C) 3, 4, 6