Rotten Tomatoes: Movie & TV Show Reviews, Trailers
Rotten Tomatoes has become a household name for movie and TV show reviews. But what exactly makes this platform so influential, and how can you use it to make informed viewing decisions?
What is Rotten Tomatoes?
Rotten Tomatoes is a website that aggregates reviews from film and television critics. The site provides an overall percentage score for a movie or show, based on the proportion of positive reviews it receives. This score, known as the "Tomatometer," offers a quick snapshot of critical reception.
- Fresh: A score of 60% or higher indicates that a significant majority of critics recommend the movie or show.
- Rotten: A score of below 60% suggests that most critics did not enjoy the movie or show.
In addition to the Tomatometer, Rotten Tomatoes also provides an audience score, reflecting the average rating given by regular viewers. This can be a useful counterpoint to the critics' consensus, as audience tastes sometimes differ.
How to Use Rotten Tomatoes
Navigating Rotten Tomatoes is straightforward. Simply search for a movie or TV show to find its Tomatometer score, audience score, and a selection of reviews from both critics and viewers. You can delve deeper into the reviews to understand the specific reasons behind the scores.
Key Features:
- Tomatometer: The percentage of critics who have given a positive review.
- Audience Score: The percentage of users who have rated the movie or show positively.
- Reviews: A collection of individual reviews from critics and audience members.
- Trailers and Clips: Often includes trailers and clips to give you a sneak peek.
Why is Rotten Tomatoes Important?
Rotten Tomatoes plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing box office success. A high Tomatometer score can generate buzz and attract viewers, while a low score can deter potential audiences. The site's influence has led to discussions about the role of film criticism in the digital age.
The Impact on the Industry
The Rotten Tomatoes effect is a real phenomenon in the entertainment industry. Studios and filmmakers are keenly aware of the site's influence and often adjust their marketing strategies accordingly. While some argue that the focus on aggregate scores over individual reviews can be reductive, there's no denying that Rotten Tomatoes has transformed the way we talk about and consume movies and TV shows.
Whether you're a casual viewer or a film enthusiast, Rotten Tomatoes offers a valuable resource for discovering new content and making informed decisions about what to watch. By understanding how the Tomatometer and audience scores are calculated, you can use the site to enhance your viewing experience.