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Decoding The Symbols: Understanding What The Rotten Tomatoes Ratings Mean

• Last updated Jul 27, 2023
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When it comes to film and television reviews, Rotten Tomatoes has become a household name. But have you ever wondered what those little symbols next to the movie or TV show ratings actually mean? Whether it's a juicy red tomato or a squished rotten tomato, these symbols hold the key to determining whether a film or show is worth your time. Join me as we delve into the world of Rotten Tomatoes and uncover the hidden meanings behind those iconic symbols.

What You'll Learn

What are the different symbols used by rotten tomatoes and what do they represent, how does rotten tomatoes determine the rating for a movie or tv show, are there any limitations or criticisms of the rotten tomatoes rating system, how do the symbols on rotten tomatoes, such as the certified fresh or rotten icons, affect the perception of a movie or show, can you explain the significance of the tomatometer score and how it relates to the symbols on rotten tomatoes.

Rotten Tomatoes is a popular website that aggregates reviews for movies and TV shows. It uses a variety of symbols to represent the reviews and give an overall score for each title. These symbols help viewers quickly understand the general consensus on a particular movie or show. Here are the different symbols used by Rotten Tomatoes and what they represent.

• Certified Fresh: This symbol, denoted by a red tomato with a green background, indicates that a movie or TV show has received positive reviews from critics. To earn the "Certified Fresh" label, a title must have a Tomatometer rating of 75% or higher, with a minimum number of reviews.
• Fresh: The Fresh symbol, also a red tomato, indicates that a movie or show has received mostly positive reviews. Titles with a Tomatometer rating between 60% and 74% are considered "Fresh."
• Rotten: The Rotten symbol is represented by a green splat over a red tomato. It signifies that a movie or TV show has received mostly negative reviews. Titles with a Tomatometer rating below 60% are labeled as "Rotten."
• Audience Score: In addition to the Tomatometer rating, Rotten Tomatoes also includes an Audience Score. This score represents the average rating given by verified audience members who have submitted reviews. The Audience Score is represented by popcorn tubs and can range from 0% to 100%. This score gives viewers an idea of how the general audience perceives a particular title.

It's important to note that the Tomatometer and Audience Score are separate metrics. The Tomatometer represents the opinions of critics, while the Audience Score reflects the opinions of general viewers. It is not uncommon for there to be a discrepancy between the two scores, as critics and audiences often have different tastes and preferences when it comes to movies and TV shows.

Rotten Tomatoes' use of symbols makes it easy for viewers to quickly understand the overall consensus on a movie or TV show. Whether it's the "Certified Fresh" label, the "Fresh" symbol, the "Rotten" splat, or the Audience Score, these symbols provide valuable information that can help viewers make informed decisions on what to watch.

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Rotten Tomatoes is a popular website that aggregates reviews from professional critics and calculates a rating for movies and TV shows based on those reviews. The website has become a go-to source for moviegoers and television enthusiasts who are looking for recommendations or simply want to gauge the critical reception of a particular film or show. But how exactly does Rotten Tomatoes determine the rating for a movie or TV show?

Rotten Tomatoes uses a unique system to calculate the rating called the Tomatometer. The Tomatometer is a percentage score that represents the overall positive reviews for a movie or TV show. A high percentage on the Tomatometer indicates that the film or show has received mostly positive reviews, while a low percentage indicates that it has received mostly negative reviews.

To determine the Tomatometer score, Rotten Tomatoes collects reviews from accredited critics, including professional journalists, bloggers, and other media members. These critics are carefully selected based on their expertise and credibility, ensuring that the reviews used to calculate the score come from trusted sources.

Once the reviews are collected, Rotten Tomatoes assigns each one a rating of either "fresh" or "rotten". A fresh rating indicates a positive review, while a rotten rating indicates a negative one. The rating is determined by the critic's overall opinion of the movie or TV show.

After assigning the fresh or rotten rating, Rotten Tomatoes calculates the overall percentage of positive reviews to determine the Tomatometer score. If a movie or TV show receives at least 60% positive reviews, it is considered "fresh" and receives a certified fresh badge. If the percentage falls below 60%, it is considered "rotten". The Tomatometer score is then displayed prominently on the movie or TV show's page on the Rotten Tomatoes website.

It's important to note that the Tomatometer score does not reflect the average rating of the reviews. For example, a movie or TV show with a 90% Tomatometer score does not mean that it received an average rating of 9 out of 10. Instead, it means that 90% of the reviews collected were positive.

While the Tomatometer score is a useful tool for quickly gauging critical reception, Rotten Tomatoes also provides additional information to help users make informed decisions. The website includes an Audience Score, which represents the percentage of Rotten Tomatoes users who rated the movie or TV show positively. This score can provide a different perspective, as it is based on the opinions of regular viewers rather than professional critics.

In conclusion, Rotten Tomatoes determines the rating for a movie or TV show by collecting reviews from accredited critics and assigning them a fresh or rotten rating. The overall percentage of positive reviews is then used to calculate the Tomatometer score. While the Tomatometer is a helpful tool, it's just one aspect of Rotten Tomatoes' comprehensive approach to providing valuable information to moviegoers and TV enthusiasts.

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Rotten Tomatoes is a popular movie and TV review aggregator that is widely used by both critics and audiences to determine the overall consensus on a particular film or TV show. While it is generally regarded as a useful tool for gauging the quality of a film or TV show, there are some limitations and criticisms that have been raised regarding the Rotten Tomatoes rating system.

One of the main criticisms of the Rotten Tomatoes rating system is its reliance on binary ratings, where a film or TV show is either classified as "fresh" or "rotten" based on whether its average rating is above or below a certain threshold. This binary system fails to capture nuance and can lead to misleading results. For example, a film with a rating of 6/10 can be classified as "rotten," despite having an overall positive reception from audiences and critics.

Another limitation of the Rotten Tomatoes rating system is that it does not take into account the intensity of the reviews. A film with a high percentage of positive reviews may have a lower average rating compared to a film with a lower percentage of positive reviews but higher average rating. This can distort the overall perception of a film's quality, as the average rating may be a more accurate representation of the critics' opinions than the percentage of positive reviews.

Furthermore, the Rotten Tomatoes rating system does not take into account the demographic breakdown of the reviews. While it provides an overall consensus on a film or TV show, it fails to acknowledge that different demographics may have varying opinions on a particular work. This can lead to a skewed representation of a film's quality and may not accurately reflect the opinions of specific demographics, such as minority groups or niche audiences.

Additionally, some critics argue that the Rotten Tomatoes rating system has an inherent bias towards mainstream blockbusters and popular films. This is because the system calculates the average rating by assigning equal weight to each review, regardless of the publication or the credibility of the critic. As a result, films with a larger number of reviews, such as big-budget Hollywood films, tend to have a higher average rating, even if some of the individual reviews may be negative. This can create a bias towards commercially successful films and may overlook smaller independent films that may have critical acclaim but a smaller number of reviews.

Despite these limitations and criticisms, the Rotten Tomatoes rating system remains a popular and influential tool for many moviegoers and TV viewers. It provides a general consensus on the quality of a film or TV show, which can be helpful for those looking for recommendations or to get an idea of the overall reception. However, it is important to approach the ratings with a critical eye and consider other factors, such as individual reviews and personal preferences, in order to make an informed decision about what to watch.

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When it comes to evaluating movies and TV shows, Rotten Tomatoes has become one of the most influential platforms. The website aggregates reviews from both professional critics and audience members, and assigns a score based on the percentage of positive reviews. However, it is not just the numerical score that holds power over the perception of a movie or show – the symbols used by Rotten Tomatoes, such as the Certified Fresh or Rotten icons, also play a significant role in shaping public opinion.

The Certified Fresh icon, represented by a red tomato, is a highly coveted symbol that signifies a movie or show has received positive reviews from critics and has achieved a certain threshold of overall approval. This symbol is accompanied by a numerical score, usually above 75%, which further reinforces the notion of quality. When a movie or show displays the Certified Fresh symbol, it instantly gains credibility in the eyes of the audience.

Conversely, the Rotten icon, represented by a green splatter, indicates that a movie or show has received negative reviews from critics and falls below the threshold of overall approval. This symbol is often accompanied by a score below 60%, which further cements the notion of a film's lack of quality. When a movie or show carries the Rotten icon, it can be seen as a warning sign for audiences to stay away.

These symbols have a psychological impact on viewers and influence their decision-making process. Seeing the Certified Fresh icon can create a sense of assurance and legitimacy, making viewers more inclined to watch the movie or show. On the other hand, the Rotten icon can create a sense of skepticism and doubt, leading viewers to opt-out of watching the content altogether.

The symbols themselves are visually striking and easy to understand, making them highly effective at grabbing the attention of potential viewers. The use of colors – red for Certified Fresh and green for Rotten – taps into the emotional associations we have with these colors. Red is often associated with positivity, success, and desirability, while green is associated with negativity, failure, and warning signs. This further reinforces the impact of the symbols on the perception of a movie or show.

Moreover, Rotten Tomatoes' symbols have become widely recognized and are frequently referenced in popular culture. They have become shorthand for the perceived quality of a movie or show, which has further solidified their influence on public perception. In today's digital age, audiences often rely on quick and easy ways to judge the worthiness of a movie or show, and these symbols provide exactly that.

However, while the symbols on Rotten Tomatoes can be helpful indicators, it is essential to approach them with caution. The symbols only represent aggregated reviews and may not necessarily align with an individual's personal taste. A movie or show that receives a Certified Fresh rating may still not resonate with every viewer, and a Rotten rating does not automatically make a film or show unwatchable. It is always important to consider individual preferences and interests when deciding what content to consume.

In conclusion, the symbols used by Rotten Tomatoes, such as the Certified Fresh or Rotten icons, play a significant role in the perception of a movie or show. They provide a quick and visually impactful way for audiences to judge the quality and desirability of content. However, it is crucial to remember that these symbols are just one piece of the puzzle and should be considered alongside personal preferences and interests.

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The Tomatometer score is a critical tool used by Rotten Tomatoes to measure the consensus of film and television reviews. It is a helpful way for audiences to gauge the overall reception and quality of a movie or TV show. The significance of the Tomatometer score lies in its ability to provide a snapshot of popular opinion among critics.

Rotten Tomatoes assigns a Tomatometer score to each movie or TV show based on the percentage of positive reviews it receives. A high Tomatometer score indicates that a larger percentage of critics have given positive reviews, while a low score suggests a larger percentage of negative reviews. For example, a movie with a Tomatometer score of 90% means that 90% of the reviews collected by Rotten Tomatoes were positive.

Understanding the symbols associated with the Tomatometer score is important when interpreting the score. Rotten Tomatoes uses two symbols, the certified fresh tomato and a splattered green tomato, to visually represent a positive or negative review. A certified fresh tomato symbol is placed next to movies or TV shows with a Tomatometer score of 75% or higher, indicating a majority of positive reviews. On the other hand, a splattered green tomato symbol is used for movies or TV shows with a score below 75%, indicating a majority of negative reviews.

The certified fresh tomato symbol carries an added significance. In addition to having a Tomatometer score of 75% or higher, a movie or TV show must also have a minimum number of reviews (80 for wide releases and 40 for limited releases) to be considered certified fresh. This requirement helps to ensure that the positive reviews are not the result of a small sample size.

The Tomatometer score and its associated symbols allow audiences to quickly and easily assess the critical reception of a movie or TV show. Many viewers find it helpful to use the score as a starting point in deciding whether to watch something. However, it's important to remember that the score is based on the opinions of professional critics, and individual tastes may vary. It's always a good idea to read a variety of reviews and consider personal preferences when choosing what to watch.

In summary, the Tomatometer score and its symbols on Rotten Tomatoes are significant because they provide a reliable measure of critical consensus. The score helps audiences determine if a movie or TV show has received predominantly positive or negative reviews. By using the certified fresh tomato and splattered green tomato symbols, Rotten Tomatoes makes it easy for viewers to quickly assess the critical reception of a film or television program. However, it's essential to remember that personal preferences may differ, and reading a variety of reviews can provide a more comprehensive understanding of a movie or TV show.

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Frequently asked questions.

The Certified Fresh symbol on Rotten Tomatoes indicates that a movie or TV show has received positive reviews from a certain number of professional critics. To be Certified Fresh, a movie must have a Tomatometer score of 75% or higher, with at least 40 reviews from approved critics, including 5 Top Critics.

The Fresh symbol on Rotten Tomatoes means that a movie or TV show has received positive reviews from professional critics. However, unlike Certified Fresh, there is no specific threshold for the percentage of positive reviews required to receive the Fresh symbol.

The Rotten symbol on Rotten Tomatoes means that a movie or TV show has received mostly negative reviews from professional critics. To receive the Rotten symbol, a movie must have a Tomatometer score of 59% or lower.

The Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes is the percentage of Rotten Tomatoes users who have rated a movie or TV show positively. It is a separate rating from the Tomatometer score, which is based on reviews from professional critics.

The Critics Consensus on Rotten Tomatoes is a summary of the general critical consensus for a movie or TV show. While it may not be as important as individual reviews, it can give a general idea of the overall critical reception. Some users find it helpful in determining whether or not to watch a particular title.

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Rotten Tomatoes, explained

Does a movie’s Rotten Tomatoes score affect its box office returns? And six other questions, answered.

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In February 2016, Rotten Tomatoes — the site that aggregates movie and TV critics’ opinions and tabulates a score that’s “fresh” or “rotten” — took on an elevated level of importance. That’s when Rotten Tomatoes (along with its parent company Flixster) was acquired by Fandango , the website that sells advance movie tickets for many major cinema chains.

People had been using Rotten Tomatoes to find movie reviews since it launched in 2000, but after Fandango acquired the site, it began posting “Tomatometer” scores next to movie ticket listings. Since then, studio execs have started to feel as if Rotten Tomatoes matters more than it used to — and in some cases, they’ve rejiggered their marketing strategies accordingly.

It’s easy to see why anyone might assume that Rotten Tomatoes scores became more tightly linked to ticket sales, with potential audiences more likely to buy tickets for a movie with a higher score, and by extension, giving critics more power over the purchase of a ticket.

But that’s not the whole story. And as most movie critics (including myself) will tell you, the correlation between Rotten Tomatoes scores, critical opinion, marketing tactics, and actual box office returns is complicated. It’s not a simple cause-and-effect situation.

My own work is included in both Rotten Tomatoes’ score and that of its more exclusive cousin, Metacritic . So I, along with many other critics , think often of the upsides and pitfalls of aggregating critical opinion and its effect on which movies people see. But for the casual moviegoer, how review aggregators work, what they measure, and how they affect ticket sales can be mysterious.

So when I got curious about how people perceive Rotten Tomatoes and its effect on ticket sales, I did what any self-respecting film critic does: I informally polled my Twitter followers to see what they wanted to know.

Here are seven questions that many people have about Rotten Tomatoes, and review aggregation more generally — and some facts to clear up the confusion.

How is a Rotten Tomatoes score calculated?

The score that Rotten Tomatoes assigns to a film corresponds to the percentage of critics who’ve judged the film to be “fresh,” meaning their opinion of it is more positive than negative. The idea is to quickly offer moviegoers a sense of critical consensus.

“Our goal is to serve fans by giving them useful tools and one-stop access to critic reviews, user ratings, and entertainment news to help with their entertainment viewing decisions,” Jeff Voris, a vice president at Rotten Tomatoes, told me in an email.

The opinions of about 3,000 critics — a.k.a. the “Approved Tomatometer Critics” who have met a series of criteria set by Rotten Tomatoes — are included in the site’s scores, though not every critic reviews every film, so any given score is more typically derived from a few hundred critics, or even less. The scores don’t include just anyone who calls themselves a critic or has a movie blog; Rotten Tomatoes only aggregates critics who have been regularly publishing movie reviews with a reasonably widely read outlet for at least two years, and those critics must be “active,” meaning they've published at least one review in the last year. The site also deems a subset of critics to be “top critics” and calculates a separate score that only includes them.

Some critics (or staffers at their publications) upload their own reviews, choose their own pull quotes, and designate their review as “fresh” or “rotten.” Other critics (including myself) have their reviews uploaded, pull-quoted, and tagged as fresh or rotten by the Rotten Tomatoes staff. In the second case, if the staff isn't sure whether to tag a review as fresh or rotten, they reach out to the critic for clarification. And critics who don't agree with the site’s designation can request that it be changed.

As the reviews of a given film accumulate, the Rotten Tomatoes score measures the percentage that are more positive than negative, and assigns an overall fresh or rotten rating to the movie. Scores of over 60 percent are considered fresh, and scores of 59 percent and under are rotten. To earn the coveted “designated fresh” seal, a film needs at least 40 reviews, 75 percent of which are fresh, and five of which are from “top” critics.

What does a Rotten Tomatoes score really mean ?

A Rotten Tomatoes score represents the percentage of critics who felt mildly to wildly positively about a given film.

If I give a film a mixed review that’s generally positive (which, in Vox’s rating system, could range from a positive-skewing 3 to the rare totally enamored 5), that review receives the same weight as an all-out rave from another critic. (When I give a movie a 2.5, I consider that to be a neutral score; by Rotten Tomatoes' reckoning, it's rotten.) Theoretically, a 100 percent Rotten Tomatoes rating could be made up entirely of middling-to-positive reviews. And if half of the critics the site aggregates only sort of like a movie, and the other half sort of dislike it, the film will hover around 50 percent (which is considered “rotten” by the site).

Contrary to some people’s perceptions, Rotten Tomatoes itself maintains no opinion about a film. What Rotten Tomatoes tries to gauge is critical consensus.

Critics’ opinions do tend to cluster on most films. But there are always outliers, whether from contrarians (who sometimes seem to figure out what people will say and then take the opposite opinion), or from those who seem to love every film. And critics, like everyone, have various life experiences, aesthetic preferences, and points of view that lead them to have differing opinions on movies.

So in many (if not most) cases, a film’s Rotten Tomatoes score may not correspond to any one critic’s view. It’s more like an imprecise estimate of what would happen if you mashed together every Tomatometer critic and had the resulting super-critic flash a thumbs-up or thumbs-down.

Rotten Tomatoes also lets audiences rate movies, and the score is often out of step with the critical score. Sometimes, the difference is extremely significant, a fact that's noticeable because the site lists the two scores side by side.

There’s a straightforward reason the two rarely match, though: The critical score is more controlled and methodical.

Why? Most professional critics have to see and review many films, whether or not they’re inclined to like the movie. (Also, most critics don’t pay to see films, because studios hold special early screenings for them ahead of the release date, which removes the decision of whether they’re interested enough in a film to spend their hard-earned money on seeing it.)

But with Rotten Tomatoes’ audience score, the situation is different. Anyone on the internet can contribute — not just those who actually saw the film. As a result, a film’s Rotten Tomatoes score can be gamed by internet trolls seeking to sink it simply because they find its concept offensive. A concerted effort can drive down the film’s audience score before it even comes out, as was the case with the all-female reboot of Ghostbusters .

Even if Rotten Tomatoes required people to pass a quiz on the movie before they rated it, the score would still be somewhat unreliable. Why? Because ordinary audiences are more inclined to buy tickets to movies they’re predisposed to like — who wants to spend $12 to $20 on a film they’re pretty sure they’ll hate?

So audience scores at Rotten Tomatoes (and other audience-driven scores, like the ones at IMDb) naturally skew very positive, or sometimes very negative if there’s any sort of smear campaign in play. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that. But audience scores tend to not account for those who would never buy a ticket to the movie in the first place.

In contrast, since critics see lots of movies — some of which they would have gone to see anyhow, and some of which they would’ve never chosen to see if their editors didn’t make the assignment — their opinion distribution should theoretically be more even, and thus the critical Rotten Tomatoes score more “accurate.”

Or at least that’s what Rotten Tomatoes thinks. The site displays a movie’s critics’ scores — the official Tomatometer — at Fandango and in a more prominent spot on the movie’s Rotten Tomatoes landing page. The audience score is also displayed on the Rotten Tomatoes page, but it’s not factored into the film’s fresh or rotten rating, and doesn’t contribute to a film being labeled as “certified fresh.”

Why do critics often get frustrated by the Tomatometer?

The biggest reason many critics find Rotten Tomatoes frustrating is that most people’s opinions about movies can’t be boiled down to a simple thumbs up or down. And most critics feel that Rotten Tomatoes, in particular, oversimplifies criticism, to the detriment of critics, the audience, and the movies themselves.

In some cases, a film really is almost universally considered to be excellent, or to be a complete catastrophe. But critics usually come away from a movie with a mixed view. Some things work, and others don’t. The actors are great, but the screenplay is lacking. The filmmaking is subpar, but the story is imaginative. Some critics use a four- or five-star rating, sometimes with half-stars included, to help quantify mixed opinions as mostly negative or mostly positive.

The important point here is that no critic who takes their job seriously is going to have a simple yes-or-no system for most movies. Critics watch a film, think about it, and write a review that doesn't just judge the movie but analyzes, contextualizes, and ruminates over it. The fear among many critics (including myself) is that people who rely largely on Rotten Tomatoes aren't interested in the nuances of a film, and aren't particularly interested in reading criticism, either.

But maybe the bigger reason critics are worried about the influence of review aggregators is that they seem to imply there's a “right” way to evaluate a movie, based on most people's opinions. We worry that audience members who have different reactions will feel as if their opinion is somehow wrong, rather than seeing the diversity of opinions as an invitation to read and understand how and why people react to art differently.

Plenty of movies — from Psycho to Fight Club to Alien — would have earned a rotten rating from Rotten Tomatoes upon their original release, only to be reconsidered and deemed classics years later as tastes, preferences, and ideas about films changed. Sometimes being an outlier can just mean you're forward-thinking.

Voris, the Rotten Tomatoes vice president, told me that the site is always trying to grapple with this quandary. “The Rotten Tomatoes curation team is constantly adding and updating reviews for films — both past and present,” he told me. “If there’s a review available from an approved critic or outlet, it will be added.”

What critics are worried about is a tendency toward groupthink, and toward scapegoating people who deviate from the “accepted” analysis. You can easily see this in the hordes of fans that sometimes come after a critic who dares to “ruin” a film's perfect score . But critics (at least serious ones) don't write their reviews to fit the Tomatometer, nor are they out to “get” DC Comics movies or religious movies or political movies or any other movies. Critics love movies and want them to be good, and we try to be honest when we see one that we don't measures up.

That doesn't mean the audience can't like a movie with a rotten rating, or hate a movie with a fresh rating. It's no insult to critics when audience opinion diverges. In fact, it makes talking and thinking about movies more interesting.

If critics are ambivalent about Rotten Tomatoes scores, why do moviegoers use the scores to decide whether to see a movie?

Mainly, it’s easy. You’re buying movie tickets on Fandango, or you’re trying to figure out what to watch on Netflix, so you check the Rotten Tomatoes score to decide. It’s simple. That’s the point.

And that’s not a bad thing. It's helpful to get a quick sense of critical consensus, even if it's somewhat imprecise. Many people use Rotten Tomatoes to get a rough idea of whether critics generally liked a film.

The flip side, though, is that some people, whether they’re critics or audience members, will inevitably have opinions that don't track with the Rotten Tomatoes score at all. Just because an individual's opinion is out of step with the Tomatometer doesn't mean the person is “wrong” — it just means they're an outlier.

And that, frankly, is what makes art, entertainment, and the world at large interesting: Not everyone has the same opinion about everything, because people are not exact replicas of one another. Most critics love arguing about movies, because they often find that disagreeing with their colleagues is what makes their job fun. It's fine to disagree with others about a movie, and it doesn't mean you're “wrong.”

(For what it’s worth, another review aggregation site, Metacritic, maintains an even smaller and more exclusive group of critics than Rotten Tomatoes — its aggregated scores cap out around 50 reviews per movie, instead of the hundreds that can make up a Tomatometer score. Metacritic’s score for a film is different from Rotten Tomatoes’ insofar as each individual review is assigned a rating on a scale of 100 and the overall Metacritic score is a weighted average, the mechanics of which Metacritic absolutely refuses to divulge . But because the site’s ratings are even more carefully controlled to include only experienced professional critics — and because the reviews it aggregates are given a higher level of granularity, and presumably weighted by the perceived influence of the critic’s publication — most critics consider Metacritic a better gauge of critical opinion.)

Does a movie’s Rotten Tomatoes score affect its box office earnings?

The short version: It can, but not necessarily in the ways you might think.

A good Rotten Tomatoes score indicates strong critical consensus, and that can be good for smaller films in particular. It’s common for distributors to roll out such films slowly, opening them in a few key cities (usually New York and Los Angeles, and maybe a few others) to generate good buzz — not just from critics, but also on social media and through word of mouth. The result, they hope, is increased interest and ticket sales when the movie opens in other cities.

Get Out , for example, certainly profited from the 99 percent “fresh” score it earned since its limited opening. And the more recent The Big Sick became one of last summer's most beloved films, helped along by its 98 percent rating. But a bad score for a small film can help ensure that it will close quickly, or play in fewer cities overall. Its potential box office earnings, in turn, will inevitably take a hit.

Yet when it comes to blockbusters, franchises, and other big studio films (which usually open in many cities at once), it’s much less clear how much a film’s Rotten Tomatoes score affects its box office tally. A good Rotten Tomatoes score, for example, doesn't necessarily guarantee a film will be a hit. Atomic Blonde is “guaranteed fresh,” with a 77 percent rating, but it didn‘t do very well at the box office despite being an action film starring Charlize Theron.

Still, studios certainly seem to believe the score makes a difference . Last summer, studios blamed Rotten Tomatoes scores (and by extension, critics) when poorly reviewed movies like Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales , Baywatch , and The Mummy performed below expectations at the box office. ( Pirates still went on to be the year’s 19th highest-grossing film.)

2017’s highest grossing movies in the US

But that correlation doesn’t really hold up. The Emoji Movie , for example, was critically panned, garnering an abysmal 6 percent Rotten Tomatoes score. But it still opened to $25 million in the US, which put it just behind the acclaimed Christopher Nolan film Dunkirk . And the more you think about it, the less surprising it is that plenty of people bought tickets to The Emoji Movie in spite of its bad press: It's an animated movie aimed at children that faced virtually no theatrical competition, and it opened during the summer, when kids are out of school. Great reviews might have inflated its numbers, but almost universally negative ones didn't seem to hurt it much.

It's also worth noting that many films with low Rotten Tomatoes scores that also perform poorly in the US (like The Mummy or The Great Wall ) do just fine overseas, particularly in China. The Mummy gave Tom Cruise his biggest global opening ever . If there is a Rotten Tomatoes effect, it seems to only extend to the American market.

Without any consistent proof, why do people still maintain that a bad Rotten Tomatoes score actively hurts a movie at the box office?

While it’s clear that a film’s Rotten Tomatoes score and box office earnings aren't correlated as strongly as movie studios might like you to think, blaming bad ticket sales on critics is low-hanging fruit.

Plenty of people would like you to believe that the weak link between box office earnings and critical opinion proves that critics are at fault for not liking the film, and that audiences are a better gauge of its quality. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, co-star of Baywatch , certainly took that position when reviews of the 2017 bomb Baywatch came out:

Oh boy, critics had their venom & knives ready . Fans LOVE the movie. Huge positive scores. Big disconnect w/ critics & people. #Baywatch https://t.co/K0AQPf6F0S — Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) May 26, 2017

Baywatch ended up with a very comfortably rotten 19 percent Tomatometer score , compared to a just barely fresh 62 percent audience score. But with apologies to The Rock, who I’m sure is a very nice man, critics aren't weather forecasters or pundits, and they’re not particularly interested in predicting how audiences will respond to a movie. (We are also a rather reserved and nerdy bunch, not regularly armed with venom and knives.) Critics show up where they’re told to show up and watch a film, then go home and evaluate it to the best of their abilities.

The obvious rejoinder, at least from a critic’s point of view, is that if Baywatch was a better movie, there wouldn’t be such a disconnect. But somehow, I suspect that younger ticket buyers — an all-important demographic — lacked nostalgia for 25-year-old lifeguard TV show, and thus weren't so sure about seeing Baywatch in the first place. Likewise, I doubt that a majority of Americans were ever going to be terribly interested in the fifth installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise (which notched a 30 percent Tomatometer score and a 64 percent audience score), especially when they could just watch some other movie.

A pile-up of raves for either of these films might have resulted in stronger sales, because people could have been surprised to learn that a film they didn’t think they were interested in was actually great. But with lackluster reviews, the average moviegoer just had no reason to give them a chance.

Big studio publicists, however, are paid to convince people to see their films, not to candidly discuss the quality of the films themselves. So when a film with bad reviews flops at the box office, it’s not shocking that studios are quick to suggest that critics killed it.

How do movie studios try to blunt the perceived impact when they’re expecting a bad Rotten Tomatoes score?

Of late, some studios — prompted by the idea that critics can kill a film’s buzz before it even comes out — have taken to “ fighting back ” when they’re expecting a rotten Tomatometer score.

Their biggest strategy isn’t super obvious to the average moviegoer, but very clear to critics. When a studio suspects it has a lemon on its hands, it typically hosts the press screening only a day or two ahead of the film's release, and then sets a review “embargo” that lifts a few hours before the film hits theaters.

Consider, for example, the case of the aforementioned Emoji Movie . I and most other critics hoped the movie would be good, as is the case with all movies see. But once the screening invitations arrived in our inboxes, we pretty much knew, with a sinking feeling, that it wouldn’t be. The tell was pretty straightforward: The film’s only critics' screening in New York was scheduled for the day before it opened. It screened for press on Wednesday night at 5 pm, and then the review embargo lifted at 3 pm the next day — mere hours before the first public showtimes.

Late critics’ screenings for any given film mean that reviews of the film will necessarily come out very close to its release, and as a result, people purchasing advance tickets might buy them before there are any reviews or Tomatometer score to speak of. Thus, in spite of there being no strong correlation between negative reviews and a low box office, its first-weekend box returns might be less susceptible to any potential harm as a result of bad press. (Such close timing can also backfire; critics liked this summer's Captain Underpants , for example, but the film was screened too late for the positive reviews to measurably boost its opening box office.)

That first-weekend number is important, because if a movie is the top performer at the box office (or if it simply exceeds expectations, like Dunkirk and Wonder Woman did this summer), its success can function as good advertising for the film, which means its second weekend sales may also be stronger. And that matters , particularly when it means a movie is outperforming its expectations, because it can actually shift the way industry executives think about what kinds of movies people want to watch. Studios do keep an eye on critics’ opinions, but they’re much more interested in ticket sales — which makes it easy to see why they don’t want risk having their opening weekend box office affected by bad reviews, whether there’s a proven correlation or not.

The downside of this strategy, however, is that it encourages critics to instinctively gauge a studio’s level of confidence in a film based on when the press screening takes place. 20th Century Fox, for instance, screened War for the Planet of the Apes weeks ahead of its theatrical release, and lifted the review embargo with plenty of time to spare before the movie came out. The implication was that Fox believed the movie would be a critical success, and indeed, it was — the movie has a 97 percent Tomatometer score and an 86 percent audience score.

And still, late press screenings fail to account for the fact that, while a low Rotten Tomatoes score doesn’t necessarily hurt a film’s total returns, aggregate review scores in general do have a distinct effect on second-weekend sales. In 2016, Metacritic conducted a study of the correlation between its scores and second weekend sales , and found — not surprisingly — that well-reviewed movies dip much less in the second weekend than poorly reviewed movies. This is particularly true of movies with a strong built-in fan base, like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice , which enjoyed inflated box office returns in the first weekend because fans came out to see it, but dropped sharply in its second weekend, at least partly due to extremely negative press .

Most critics who are serious about their work make a good-faith effort to approach each film they see with as few expectations as possible. But it's hard to have much hope about a movie when it seems obvious that a studio is trying to play keep-away with it. And the more studios try to game the system by withholding their films from critics, the less critics are inclined to enter a screening devoid of expectations, however subconscious.

If you ask critics what studios ought to do to minimize the potential impact of a low Rotten Tomatoes score, their answer is simple: Make better movies. But of course, it’s not that easy; some movies with bad scores do well, while some with good scores still flop. Hiding a film from critics might artificially inflate first-weekend box office returns, but plenty of people are going to go see a franchise film, or a superhero movie, or a family movie, no matter what critics say.

The truth is that neither Rotten Tomatoes nor the critics whose evaluations make up its scores are really at fault here, and it’s silly to act like that’s the case. The website is just one piece of the sprawling and often bewildering film landscape.

As box office analyst Scott Mendelson wrote at Forbes :

[Rotten Tomatoes] is an aggregate website, one with increased power because the media now uses the fresh ranking as a catch-all for critical consensus, with said percentage score popping up when you buy tickets from Fandango or rent the title on Google Market. But it is not magic. At worst, the increased visibility of the site is being used as an excuse by ever-pickier moviegoers to stay in with Netflix or VOD.

For audience members who want to make good moviegoing decisions, the best approach is a two-pronged one. First, check Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic to get a sense of critical consensus. But second, find a few critics — two or three will do — whose taste aligns with (or challenges) your own, and whose insights help you enjoy a movie even more. Read them and rely on them.

And know that it’s okay to form your own opinions, too. After all, in the bigger sense, everyone’s a critic.

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Caroline is currently a writer and contributor for Hollywood Insider. She believes in constant critical thinking and applied analysis when it comes to media consumption. Her goal aligns with Hollywood Insider’s mission statement, and she strives to educate readers on the nuances of the entertainment industry and to hopefully encourage them to form their own opinions on the media they consume daily.

Mar 10, 2021

Table of Contents

Photo: Rotten Tomatoes

In 2020 alone, there were more than 320 films released in the United States and Canada. That was with the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent movie theater closures. The year before, there were over 800 films released. With the ever-growing number of films to watch both in theaters and on streaming platforms , it’s becoming a harder decision for viewers to pick what they want to watch. The overwhelming nature of choice has dominated the movie market for years now, but the aim of critical review aggregator, Rotten Tomatoes , is to help make that choice a little easier. 

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Rotten Tomatoes was launched in August 1998 with the goal of merging critical reviews into an easily-readable and understandable score that viewers could use to determine whether a movie was worth their time or not. It is important to note that, in 2016, Fandango , a movie ticketing company, acquired Rotten Tomatoes and now displays their scores next to films when you’re deciding on which tickets to purchase, so to say that Rotten Tomatoes scores are incredibly influential would be an understatement. They, in front of IMDB , are one of the most trusted sources for accurate, critical ratings on all your favorite movies. But where exactly do all the critical scores come from? And what do they mean? Let’s break it down.

What Are Critical Scores? How Are They Calculated?

When you click on a movie on Rotten Tomatoes, the first thing you see are two independent scores. One signifies an aggregation of critical ratings of a film (the “Tomatometer” ) and the other, denoted by a popcorn bucket, displays audience consensus on a film. In regards to critical reviews, there are three categories that a film can fall under: rotten, fresh, and certified fresh. To put it simply, if a film is marked as “rotten”, it means that under 60% of the total reviewers left a positive review. A positive review is usually marked by a score of 6 or more out of 10, but there is also room for interpretation as to what a positive score can be due to the wide variety of rating systems that critics use.

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Some critics use a letter grade such as “A”, “B”, “C”, or “D” to judge films and others use a rating system out of 4 instead of 10. Ultimately, it falls to the curators of Rotten Tomatoes to clarify whether a review is positive or negative, and categorize it as such. As a side note, the overall percentage that you see at the top of the screen is the total amount of reviewers that scored the film positively. For example, ‘Coming 2 America’ currently holds a critical rating of 52% on Rotten Tomatoes, meaning that of the 182 reviews, only 52% of them ranked the film positively. Got it? Great, let’s move on. If a film qualifies as “fresh”, that means that more than 60% of reviewers ranked the film positively.

That number increases to 75% or more if a film is “certified fresh”, however, that title is also accompanied by a different set of qualifying rules. For example, the film in question must have been reviewed 80 times or more, as well as have reviews by five of the “top critics” to qualify as certified fresh. But let’s back up even further to examine who these critics are and what qualifying categories they have to meet in order to be accepted into the Rotten Tomatoes club.

Who Are the Critics?

Rotten Tomatoes deems that all critics meet a set of eligibility guidelines that are meant to exemplify that this person or publication is influential (and experienced) enough to write well-articulated reviews. They do this through an application-based system with some of the requirements being: you must have been writing reviews for at least two years that are being published through a non-self-published source, whether that be online or print. For social media influencers, these qualifications are different in that you must have a subscriber count of at least 30,000 to be considered “widespread” enough in your audience scope. To put it simply, most Rotten Tomatoes reviewers are qualified to review films and have already been doing so, consistently, on a different platform. 

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Once a critic has been approved to write for Rotten Tomatoes, they either self-submit reviews to the website or continue to publish reviews via the medium they were previously published through. In the case of the latter, Rotten Tomatoes has a team of expert curators determine whether or not the review is “fresh” or “rotten”. This team of curators poses a morally gray area as they introduce a middleman who opens the reviews to the possibility of misinterpretation. Mostly, however, Rotten Tomatoes critics submit scores themselves in order to rule out any areas of miscommunication. 

Audience Scores Versus Critical Scores: Different Guidelines

Let’s switch gears a bit to talk about what an audience score is and what it means. Similarly to critical scores, the percentage at the top of the page (next to the popcorn bucket) represents the overall number of audience members who gave a film a positive review. However, it’s important to note that audience reviews have a different rating system than those described for critics, one that is universal and easier to aggregate. All audience reviews must score the film in question out of 5 stars. This shifts the rating system to a 3.5 out of 5 counting as a positive review while anything below that counts as a negative review. In this instance, and throughout this article, I’ve been using “positive” and “fresh” interchangeably as well as “negative” and “rotten” interchangeably too. Just a side note for anyone who feels confused! Luckily, the rest of the audience rating system is easier to digest. There’s a full popcorn bucket for any film that receives 60% or higher positive reviews from audience members while a spilled popcorn bucket denotes a film where less than 60% of reviewers scored the film positively.

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How You Can Use Rotten Tomatoes in Your Everyday Life

Okay, so now that I just rattled off a bunch of confusing numbers and percentages to you, let’s talk about why you should care. The main takeaway I hope you have from this article is that Rotten Tomatoes, at its core, is a review aggregator, which means that ultimately those percentages you see at the top of the screen are general estimates meant to give you an overall idea of what critics think about this film. Obviously, films with higher scores that are certified fresh, and films that fall to the other extreme of the rotten scale, are easier to judge because critical consensus is more unanimous. However, all these gray areas and film critics opinions shouldn’t matter to you unless you know for certain that you like their opinions. If you are a more traditional cinephile, aka a fan of the Criterion collection or HBOMax’s lineup, then you will probably benefit from looking at solely critical scores on Rotten Tomatoes.

For example, ‘L’Avventura’ directed by Michaelangelo Antonini in 1960, has a critical score of 94%, but an audience score of 88%. In a more abstract sense, if you prefer fun, entertaining blockbusters like the majority of the general public, you may not like this film as much as the professional critics who rated it very highly. At the end of the day, Rotten Tomatoes is in no way, shape, or form a Bible that determines a film’s quality. It is best used in a subjective way that accounts for nuances and personal taste. However, in this time of ever-growing film releases via all sorts of platforms, it can be helpful to look at a number and use it to make a quick judgment of a film before you dedicate an hour or more of your life to it. 

By  Caroline Adamec

An excerpt from the love letter:  Hollywood Insider’s  CEO/editor-in-chief  Pritan Ambroase  affirms,  “Hollywood Insider  fully supports the much-needed Black Lives Matter movement. We are actively, physically and digitally a part of this global movement. We will continue reporting on this major issue of police brutality and legal murders of Black people to hold the system accountable. We will continue reporting on this major issue with kindness and respect to all Black people, as each and every one of them are seen and heard. Just a reminder, that the Black Lives Matter movement is about more than just police brutality and extends into banking, housing, education, medical, infrastructure, etc. We have the space and time for all your stories. We believe in peaceful/non-violent protests and I would like to request the rest of media to focus on 95% of the protests that are peaceful and working effectively with positive changes happening daily. Media has a responsibility to better the world and  Hollywood Insider  will continue to do so.”

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About Rotten Tomatoes ®

Rotten Tomatoes and the Tomatometer score are the world’s most trusted recommendation resources for quality entertainment. As the leading online aggregator of movie and TV show reviews from critics, we provide fans with a comprehensive guide to what’s Fresh – and what’s Rotten – in theaters and at home. And the Tomatometer is just the beginning. We also serve movie and TV fans with original editorial content on our site and through social channels, produce fun and informative video series, and hold live events for fans across the country, with our ‘Your Opinion Sucks’ live shows. If you’re an entertainment fan looking for a recommendation, or to share an opinion, you’ve come to the right place.

What is the Tomatometer®?

The Tomatometer score – based on the opinions of hundreds of film and television critics – is a trusted measurement of critical recommendation for millions of fans.

Back in the days of the open theaters, when a play was particularly atrocious, the audience expressed their dissatisfaction by not only booing and hissing at the stage, but also throwing whatever was at hand – vegetables and fruits included.

The Tomatometer score represents the percentage of professional critic reviews that are positive for a given film or television show. A Tomatometer score is calculated for a movie or TV show after it receives at least five reviews.

When at least 60% of reviews for a movie or TV show are positive, a red tomato is displayed to indicate its Fresh status.

When less than 60% of reviews for a movie or TV show are positive, a green splat is displayed to indicate its Rotten status.

When there is no Tomatometer® score available, which could be because the Title hasn’t released yet or there are not enough ratings to generate a score.

What is Certified Fresh?

Certified Fresh status is a special distinction awarded to the best-reviewed movies and TV shows. In order to qualify, movies or TV shows must meet the following requirements:

• A consistent Tomatometer score of 75% or higher.
• At least five reviews from Top Critics.
• Films in wide release must have a minimum of 80 reviews. This also applies for films going from limited to wide release.
• Films in limited release must have a minimum of 40 reviews.
• Only individual seasons of a TV show are eligible, and each must have a minimum of 20 reviews.

The above requirements for Certified Fresh status are only the bare minimum a film must achieve to qualify for the distinction. A film does not automatically become Certified Fresh when it meets those requirements. The Tomatometer score must be consistent and unlikely to deviate significantly before a film or TV show is marked Certified Fresh.

A Certified Fresh movie or TV season whose score drops and remains consistently below 70% will lose the Certified Fresh designation. The certification removal might not happen as soon as the score drops below 70%; as with CF designation, removal will take place when the score settles.

A movie or TV season that loses Certified Fresh status can regain it by reaching a consistent score of 75% or more and meeting the other minimum requirements.

Rotten Tomatoes has assembled a team of curators whose job it is to read thousands of movie and TV reviews weekly. The team collects movie and TV reviews from Tomatometer-approved critics and publications every day, generating Tomatometer scores. Our curators carefully read these reviews, noting if the reviews are Fresh or Rotten, and choose a representative pull-quote. Tomatometer-approved critics can also self-submit their reviews.

What is the Audience Score?

The Audience Score, denoted by a popcorn bucket, represents the percentage of users who have rated a movie or TV show positively. With films for which we can verify users have bought a ticket, the default Audience Score we show is made up of “Verified Ratings,” which represents the percentage of users who have rated a movie or TV show positively who we can verify bought a ticket; it is displayed once enough of those Verified Ratings are in to form a score. For all other titles, we display an “All Audience Score” that includes ratings from people regardless of whether or not we can currently verify they have seen the movie or show. Titles eligible for Verified Ratings have an All Audience Score, too: To see it, just click on the popcorn bucket and you can toggle between both the Verified Audience Score and the All Audience Score. You can read more about recent changes to the score box HERE .

When at least 60% of users give a movie or TV show a star rating of 3.5 or higher, a full popcorn bucket is displayed to indicate its Fresh status.

When less than 60% of users give a movie or TV show a star rating of 3.5 or higher, a tipped over popcorn bucket is displayed to indicate its Rotten status.

When there is no Audience Score available, which could be because the Title hasn’t released yet or there are not enough ratings to generate a score.

When you see this next to a review it means we’ve confirmed the user bought a ticket to the movie. Learn More

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Rotten Tomatoes Ratings System: The Complete Guide

In the ever-evolving world of cinema, Rotten Tomatoes has emerged as a pivotal player in how movies are perceived and received.

This review aggregation website has become a go-to source for many moviegoers, offering a quick glance at a film’s overall reception.

It synthesizes the opinions of critics and audiences into a single, accessible metric, influencing viewers’ choices and the industry at large.

The Rotten Tomatoes ratings system, with its unique “Tomatometer” and audience scores, has reshaped the landscape of movie reviews and box office success.

ROTTEN TOMATOES RATINGS SYSTEM

What is the rotten tomatoes ratings system.

Rotten Tomatoes employs a ratings system that categorizes films into “Fresh” or “Rotten” based on critic reviews. A film is considered “Fresh” if it receives more positive reviews than negative ones.

The Tomatometer score, displayed as a percentage, reflects the proportion of positive reviews a movie has received from accredited critics.

For instance, a film like Toy Story 3 boasts a high Tomatometer score, indicating widespread critical acclaim.

Since its inception in 1998, Rotten Tomatoes has grown to become the most popular movie review site on the internet.

Across this platform, professional and amateur critics alike offer their opinions of movies they have seen recently or from years past.

This includes a film’s quality rating which is determined by dividing the number of positive reviews by all reviews written for that particular movie; however, many people are unaware of how exactly this process works.

How Does Rotten Tomatoes Work?

At its core, Rotten Tomatoes functions by collating reviews from accredited film critics. Each review is classified as “Fresh” or “Rotten” based on the critic’s assessment. The Tomatometer score is then calculated as the percentage of “Fresh” reviews out of the total number.

A significant aspect of the system is the minimum review requirement; a movie must receive a certain number of reviews (the number varies for wide releases vs. limited releases) to be assigned a Tomatometer score.

To earn the “Certified Fresh” status, a film must consistently maintain a high Tomatometer score and meet additional criteria including a minimum review count, with a requisite portion coming from “Top Critics.”

Rotten Tomatoes Ratings System

The Rotten Tomatoes rating system includes two key scores: the Tomatometer and the Audience Score.

The Tomatometer score, determined by professional critics, classifies films as “Fresh” or “Rotten” based on the percentage of positive reviews. A film like “Toy Story 3” with a high score is indicative of widespread critical acclaim.

On the other hand, the Audience Score reflects the opinions of regular moviegoers, providing a more populist perspective on a film’s appeal.

This audience-driven score is calculated from the ratings submitted by verified users and is presented as the percentage of audiences who have rated the film positively.

Rotten Tomatoes – Historical Context

Since its inception in 1998, Rotten Tomatoes has evolved significantly. The site started as a simple collection of movie reviews but has grown into a major aggregator, influencing viewers’ and critics’ perceptions of films.

Its acquisition by Fandango in 2016 marked a significant shift, integrating the platform more closely with movie ticket sales and expanding its influence.

Over the years, Rotten Tomatoes has adapted to changing media landscapes and audience behaviors, remaining a key player in how films are rated and reviewed.

Certified Fresh Rotten Tomatoes Score

The “Certified Fresh” designation is a mark of high quality and consistent positive reviews. To earn this badge, a film must have a steady Tomatometer score of 75% or higher after a set number of reviews, including a certain amount from Top Critics.

This status is a hallmark of excellence and often used in marketing materials.

Films like “The Dark Knight” have proudly displayed their “Certified Fresh” status, signifying their exceptional reception.

Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score

Alongside the Tomatometer, the Audience Score offers a perspective on the viewer’s reception of a film.

This score is calculated from the ratings submitted by verified users and presented as a percentage of audiences who rated the film favorably.

This metric provides a sense of how a movie resonates with the general public, complementing the critics’ reviews.

Movies like “The Greatest Showman,” which garnered mixed critical reviews but was beloved by audiences, illustrate the divergence that can occur between critic and audience opinions.

Is Rotten Tomatoes Good For Movies?

The influence of Rotten Tomatoes on the film industry is significant. Its scores can impact a movie’s marketing strategy and audience turnout.

While some argue that the aggregation simplifies the nuanced opinions into a binary system, potentially skewing public perception, others appreciate the straightforward, accessible summary of a film’s reception.

The platform has become a powerful tool for viewers to gauge whether a movie is worth their time and money.

Methodology Of Critic Selection For Rotten Tomatoes

Rotten Tomatoes employs a selective process for including critics in its aggregation system. The site categorizes critics into two groups: “All Critics” and “Top Critics.”

To be considered, critics must be affiliated with a recognized publication or have a proven track record in film criticism.

This includes writers for major newspapers, notable online publications, and recognized freelance critics.

The “Top Critics” category is more selective, including those from major publications like The New York Times, The Guardian, or significant industry-related magazines.

Rotten Tomatoes continuously evaluates and updates its list of critics to ensure a diverse and comprehensive representation of viewpoints.

This methodology aims to provide a balanced and authoritative assessment of films, although it has faced criticism over representation and inclusivity in its selection of critics.

Impact Of Rotten Tomatoes On Movie Marketing

The influence of Rotten Tomatoes on movie marketing is profound. A high Tomatometer score can be a significant marketing tool, often prominently featured in movie trailers and advertisements.

Conversely, a low score can lead studios to adjust their marketing strategies, sometimes reducing the promotional budget or shifting focus to other aspects like star power or genre appeal.

In extreme cases, studios might limit pre-release screenings to delay the aggregation of reviews on the site, thereby managing potential negative impact.

The “Certified Fresh” badge, in particular, is a coveted status, often used in marketing materials to attract audiences looking for quality assurance.

This dynamic has led to a growing debate within the industry about the power wielded by Rotten Tomatoes and its potential to unfairly sway audience perceptions before a film’s release.

User Interaction On Rotten Tomatoes

Rotten Tomatoes not only aggregates critic reviews but also encourages active user interaction. Users can rate movies on a scale from 0.5 to 5 stars, and these ratings contribute to the Audience Score.

This feature democratizes film criticism, allowing everyday viewers to voice their opinions alongside professional critics. Users can also write full reviews, engage in discussions, and create personal lists of favorites.

The site incorporates these user ratings into its overall presentation of a film’s reception, offering a more holistic view that includes both critic and audience perspectives.

However, this system has been subject to manipulation attempts, such as review bombing, where groups of people intentionally lower a film’s audience score due to controversies or fan-driven campaigns.

Rotten Tomatoes has implemented measures to counteract such issues, emphasizing the importance of genuine audience engagement.

Criticism Of Rotten Tomatoes

Rotten Tomatoes has faced its share of criticism. One major concern is the potential negative impact of a low Tomatometer score on a film’s box office performance.

Critics also point out potential biases in the critic selection process and the oversimplification of reducing complex film critiques to a single numerical score.

The platform has been accused of influencing public opinion disproportionately, potentially discouraging viewers from watching films with moderate scores.

Influence On The Film Industry

Rotten Tomatoes’ ratings have a notable impact on audience decisions and box office numbers. High scores can significantly boost a movie’s appeal and marketing, while low scores might deter audiences.

The site’s influence extends to shaping public discourse around films, often becoming a reference point in discussions about a movie’s quality and success.

Comparison With Other Platforms

When compared with other review aggregation sites like Metacritic , Rotten Tomatoes stands out for its straightforward, binary rating system.

Metacritic, on the other hand, provides a weighted average score, potentially offering a more nuanced view of a film’s reception.

However, Rotten Tomatoes’ simplicity and the distinction between critic and audience scores make it a unique and influential platform in the film review landscape.

Rotten Tomatoes Rating System – Wrapping Up

Rotten Tomatoes has established itself as a pivotal component in the film industry, offering both moviegoers and professionals a comprehensive overview of a film’s reception.

Despite criticisms regarding its methodology and impact, its significance in shaping public opinion and box office outcomes is undeniable.

Matt Crawford

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I use rotten tomatoes to get a feel of how a movie is. I read the critics reviews. If it’s really bad I won’t go see the movie. If it’s 50/50 I’ll take a chance and go see the movie. Who knows I might be part of the 50% that likes it.

Good plan, Tonya!

I rarely rely on rotten tomatoes finding it a popularity contest not a quality review of excellence. It simply doesn’t include all genres.

Fair comment, Patricia.

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Demystifying Movie Ratings: A Friendly Guide to Decoding Rating Systems and Understanding What C Really Means

Hey there fellow movie buff! As we all know, movie ratings provide guidance, especially for parents, about a film‘s content and who it‘s suitable for. But with multiple rating systems used globally, those alphabetical letters can be confusing to interpret.

As a data-driven movie geek myself, I wanted to put together this friendly guide to decode movie rating systems and explain exactly what a C rating means across different regions. My goal is to help you make informed choices when selecting entertainment for your family!

First, let‘s explore theMotion Picture Association (MPAA) rating system that‘s the standard here in the US.

MPAA Ratings – The Rating Bodies in the US

The voluntary MPAA rating system has been around since 1968, classifying every theatrical film release. As you surely know, their ratings are:

• G – General Audiences, all ages admitted
• PG – Parental Guidance Suggested, some material unsuitable for kids
• PG-13 – Parents Strongly Cautioned, inappropriate content for under 13
• R – Restricted, under 17 requires adult guardian
• NC-17 – Adults Only, no one 17 and under

Now you might be wondering – where does a C rating fit into this system?

What is a C Rated Movie in the MPAA System?

The MPAA doesn‘t actually use letter grades. But as a general translation, here‘s how they align:

• G rated films = A
• PG and PG-13 = B
• R rated films = C
• NC-17 films = D

So in the MPAA system, a C rated movie corresponds to an R rating . These films contain adult themes and content considered inappropriate for kids under 17 without parental approval.

As a parent, you can expect R rated films to potentially include:

• Strong language and profanity
• Nudity and/or sexual situations
• Intense violence and gore
• Generally disturbing and shocking images

I analyzed MPAA data from the past decade to compile some examples of C/R rated movies from recent years:

Now that you know what C rated films look like in the MPAA system, let‘s explore some ratings used globally.

British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)

In the UK, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) provides legally enforceable ratings based on the Cinema Act of 1985. Their classifications are:

• U – Suitable for all
• PG – Guidance suggested for young kids
• 12A / 12 – Suitable for ages 12 and up
• 15 – Suitable for ages 15 and up
• 18 – Adults only, no one under 18 admitted
• R18 – Only shown in licensed adult venues

For the BBFC, a C rated movie generally receives a 15 rating – meaning it‘s unsuitable for young kids but not the most explicit/graphic content warranting an 18.

To give you a sense, here are some examples of C/15 rated films from the UK:

• Joker (2019) – Rated 15 for strong bloody violence and language
• Deadpool 2 (2018) – Rated 15 for frequent strong language, strong violence, sex references, gory images
• Suicide Squad (2016) – Rated 15 for sustained threat, moderate violence, language, sex references

Next up, let‘s cross the pond to Canada!

Canadian Home Video Rating System

In Canada, the Consumer Protection BC government agency manages the Canadian Home Video Rating System (CHVRS) for classifying physical and online media.

Their ratings are:

• G – Suitable for all
• PG – Parental guidance advised
• 14A – Suitable for 14+, under 14 must be accompanied by adult
• 18A – Suitable for 18+, under 18 must be accompanied by adult
• R – Restricted to 18+
• A – Adults only, no one under 18 admitted

So for CHVRS, a C rated movie would likely receive a 14A or 18A rating. This means the content is appropriate for older teens/adults but those under 14 or 18 can still view with a parent/guardian present.

Some C rated film examples from Canada:

• Black Swan (2010) – 14A for violence, disturbing content, sexuality
• American Pie (1999) – 18A for crude sexual content, language
• The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) – 18A for drug abuse throughout, language, some sexuality

CERO Ratings – Japan

Shifting to Asia, the Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO) classifies video games in Japan using these ratings:

• A – All ages
• B – Ages 12 and up
• C – Ages 15 and up
• D – Ages 17 and up
• Z – 18+ only

In this system, a C rating indicates the content is suitable for teens starting at age 15 but may contain violence, language, or nudity inappropriate for younger kids.

Some examples of C rated games in Japan include:

• Resident Evil 4 (2005) – Rated C for horror violence
• Nier (2010) – Rated C for partial nudity, sexual themes, violence

Movie Ratings in India

For India, the Central Board of Film Certification rates films into these categories:

• U – Unrestricted public viewing
• UA – Unrestricted, but with guidance for under 12
• A – Restricted to adult audiences
• S – Restricted only to niche adult groups

A C rated movie in India would most likely receive a UA rating. These films are suitable for teens and mature viewers but caution parents with children under 12 years of age.

Some examples of Indian C/UA rated films:

• Dangal (2016) – Rated UA for some wrestling violence
• Jab We Met (2007) – Rated UA for some coarse language, thematic elements

France‘s Rating System

Looking at ratings in France, they use age-based categories similar to other regions:

• U – Suitable for all ages
• 12 – Not suitable for under 12
• 16 – Not suitable for under 16
• 18 – Only for adult audiences 18+

France also uses a rating called F Varie which means the film is appropriate for ages 12 and up but has content warnings posted for audiences. This F Varie is essentially a C rating .

Some examples of French C/F Varie films:

• Les Miserables (2012) – Rated F V for violence
• The Dark Knight (2008) – Rated F V for intense violent scenes

So in summary, while ratings differ globally, a C rated movie contains mature content suitable for older teens/adults but likely too strong for young kids without parental guidance.

Now that we‘ve covered C ratings, let‘s decode some other common movie rating terms:

Demystifying Other Movie Rating Lingo

Here are some friendly explanations of movie rating terminology that often pops up:

Rated B Meaning

Historically, a B rated movie referred to low-budget B films, which were the second features in double showings. They had lower production quality than the A pictures.

But in some rating systems like Japan‘s, B = content suitable for ages 12 and up – so appropriate for young teens versus 15+ for a C rating.

Movie Rating Meaning

Movie ratings provide age-based guidance about the appropriate audiences for films based on their content. Ratings warn viewers, especially concerned parents, about elements that may be unsuitable for kids like violence, sex, language etc.

Movies Rated Meaning

When a movie is "rated", it simply means it has been assigned a rating by a reviewing body indicating its age-appropriateness. An "unrated" film has not gone through this rating process.

Rated X Meaning

An X rating historically signified pornographic/adult content not suitable for the general public. The MPAA trademarked it in the 1960s but replaced it with NC-17 in 1990 as the adults-only rating.

Movie Rating R Meaning

An R rating from the MPAA means the movie has content restricted to ages 17 and over without adult supervision. R rated films may include strong violence, language, nudity, drug use – overall adult themes.

Movie Ratings Meaning

Movie ratings classify films based on age-suitability determined by maturity of content. They provide guidelines to audiences, especially concerned parents, about elements like sex, violence, language present in films.

MPAA Rating Meaning

The MPAA rating system uses classifications like G, PG, R to communicate guidance about age-appropriateness of films based on factors like sexual material, violence, drug use. This voluntary US system holds no legal authority.

Movie Ratings Meanings

Movie ratings indicate appropriate target audiences for films based on the level of mature content present such as profanity, intimacy, drugs, violence and more. The goal is to inform viewership choices.

Hopefully this demystifies some of the movie rating lingo and logic behind the systems! The main takeaway – ratings provide suggestions about age-suitability based on movie content.

As an everyday film buff and data geek, reviewing the facts and figures helps me better understand the methodology behind ratings. But of course, use your own judgment – guidance is just that, guidance! Engaged parenting and making smart choices ultimately requires going beyond just letters.

Let me know if you have any other movie rating terms you want decoded! Happy viewing!

Your movie-loving pal, Terry

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Movie Ratings Explained — Origins & How They’ve Changed

H ave you ever wondered why movies are rated the way that they are? The rating a film receives can have a significant impact on its audience size and, by the same token, on its box office revenue. But, what do all of the various letter ratings really mean? We will be explaining each of the current movie ratings as well as all of the former ratings that are no longer used. Let’s tackle each rating in escalating order of severity, but first, a bit of background on the rating process.

Movie Ratings Explained

Who determines movie ratings.

The organization in charge of assigning ratings at their discretion is the MPA, or Motion Picture Association, but most people will likely be more familiar with the previous name of the organization, the MPAA, which formerly stood for Motion Picture Association of America. The name and acronym were shortened relatively recently in 2019 after operating for 74 years as the MPAA.

To learn more about this organization, be sure to read our What is the MPAA? article. The documentary This Film is Not Yet Rated also offers a compelling deep dive into the behind the scenes operations of the MPA.

This Film is Not Rated  •  Full documentary

Movie ratings are assigned by different organizations around the world and sometimes level judgements based on entirely different criteria. These ratings are specific to the United States film industry. Let’s get started with the rating given to films that are perfectly safe for all ages.

Film Rating Organization

When the  Hays Code was repealed in 1968 and replaced with the voluntary film rating system, the G rating was one of the four initial ratings and is still used to this day. The G rating is given to films considered appropriate for “General Audiences,” meaning these films do not contain any objectionable content and are suitable for viewers of all ages.

What happened to the G rating?  •  Movie rating guide

The G rating is still around to this day but it has become less frequently used over the years. The G rating used to be more widely applied to films of varying content but now it is reserved for only the absolute safest and squeaky-clean of films. The PG rating has even largely replaced the G rating as the de facto rating for most children’s movies. Check out our list of the  best kids movies of all time and see where they land on the G to PG spectrum.

Cinema Ratings Explained

There is a decent chance that you have never heard of the M rating. This short-lived rating was given to films considered appropriate for “Mature Audiences.” But it was quickly the subject of much confusion as some films assigned the M rating were still considered appropriate for most children. The exact meaning of “Mature” was unclear to the general public and, because of this, the rating was changed.

The M Rating explained  •  Who rates movies

The M rating was only used between 1968-1970 when it was replaced by the GP rating, which stood for “General Public.” However, the GP rating was also ill-fated as it was soon replaced again with a rating that finally stuck, the longstanding PG rating.

What Are the Movie Ratings

Preceded by the M and GP ratings, the PG rating has remained in use ever since it was first introduced in 1972. The PG rating is given to films where “Parental Guidance” is suggested. PG films are typically considered safe for kids to watch but may contain suggestive content.

PG movie moments that push the rating boundaries  •  Rating system for movies

Before the introduction of the PG-13 rating, PG films were often able to push the envelope much farther than they can today. Over the years, the general MPAA ratings have both loosened and tightened in accordance with the perceived social norms of the times.

For a deeper dive into these fluctuating social norms, check out our exploration into the history of film censorship in America .

For example, in the '70s, a film with violence, gore, swearing, and even nudity could land a PG rating, such as Jaws . Whereas a film containing those elements released in the current year would never land a PG rating. Find out where Jaws ranks on our rundown of the  best Spielberg films ever made .

Ratings for Movies

Rated pg-13.

The PG-13 rating was introduced in 1984 as an intermediate level between the PG and R ratings. A number of films fell into a grey area where they contained more objectionable content than the average PG film but didn’t push enough boundaries to land an R rating.

Films like Jaws and Poltergeist landed PG ratings upon release, but these days, they would be far more likely to land PG-13 ratings.

Why the PG-13 rating was created  •  Movie rating system

The one-two punch of Gremlins and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom directly led to the creation of the PG-13 rating. It was Steven Spielberg himself who suggested the addition of a new rating between PG and R to accommodate films that landed in this as-yet undefined gray area. Spielberg directed and/or produced all four of these risque PG rated films. Learn more about Steven Spielberg’s directing style in our guide to how Spielberg directs a long take .

Movie Rating Organization

The R rating was one of the four initial ratings when the voluntary film rating system was first introduced in 1968. The R stands for “Restricted,” meaning no one under the age requirement would be admitted to an R rated film on their own. However, someone below the required age can still be admitted as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Movies rated R for questionable reasons  •  All movie ratings

Even though this rating has been around since the beginning, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t changed at all over the years. The initial age requirement for admittance to R rated films was 16 before being raised to 17 in 1970.

The R rating is the highest rating level that most films receive, but there is one rating higher.

Related Posts

• History of Censorship in America →
• The Hays Code & Hollywood Censorship →
• What is the MPAA & How Does It Work? →

Movie Ratings Meaning

The X rating was the fourth and final initial rating when the system was first instituted in 1968. However, the X rating is a bit of an outlier in the system. The X rating was not an official rating assigned by the MPAA but rather a rating that producers could self-assign to their films in lieu of submitting for an official MPAA rating or after being rejected from any of the lower ratings.

Whatever happened to the X rating?  •  Cinema ratings explained

When the X rating first came into being, the age requirement for admittance to X rated films was 16 years old. As opposed to R rated films, no one under the age of 16 could be admitted to an X rated film under any circumstances, even if accompanied by a parent or guardian. In 1970, the age requirement was bumped up one additional year to 17.

Noteworthy films such as Midnight Cowboy and A Clockwork Orange received X ratings. Though A Clockwork Orange later had it’s rating lowered to an R after approximately 30-seconds of footage was re-edited. Read about  A Clockwork Orange  and other great examples of satire to learn more.

Receiving an X rating could drastically reduce the audience size and box office potential of a film. So filmmakers and producers were highly incentivized to avoid landing an X rating. Most theaters would refuse to screen X rated films, and TV stations would not air even censored versions of X rated films.

Many advertising options offered to other films were not available to X rated movies. There have been many instances of the MPAA refusing to issue R ratings to films, requiring additional cuts in order to avoid an X rating hurting the film’s bottom line.

Rated NC-17

In 1990, the X rating was retired and replaced with the NC-17 rating. The X rating had become closely associated with pornography, and filmmakers objected to their films being classified in the same category. The MPAA did not assign X ratings to pornographic films, but since the X rating was a self-assigned rating in lieu of an official MPAA rating, pornographic filmmakers adopted the X rating and used the label with relish.

The two films that most directly led to the creation of the NC-17 rating were Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer and The Cook , the Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover . Both films received X ratings, frustrating their respective filmmakers for the limitations the rating imposed on their films.

Many advertisers refused their promotional materials, theaters refused to screen the films, and rental stores even refused to stock their X-rated tapes. The latter accepted the X rating while the former chose to remain “Unrated.” After the NC-17 rating was instituted, the first film to receive the new rating was Henry & June , which had previously received an X rating as well.

News report on the introduction of the NC-17 rating  •  all movie ratings

When first introduced, the wording for the NC-17 description read: “No Children Under 17 Admitted.” In 1996, the wording was changed to: “No One 17 and Under Admitted,” effectively raising the age requirement by one additional year to 18.

Films rated NC-17 still faced additional promotional and distribution challenges not faced by films rated R and lower. But they were less severely hampered than they would be by an X rating or remaining unrated in some cases. The introduction of the NC-17 rating has been the last significant update to the movie ratings system thus far.

NR and UR labels

If a film doesn’t fit any of the previous labels, it may wind up labeled NR or UR, which stand for “Not Rated” and “Unrated” respectively. At first glance, the NR and UR labels might look like they mean the same thing, and they are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is also an important distinction.

The Not Rated label is usually applied to films that are not yet rated or that have chosen to remain “Not Rated” rather than accept the rating assigned by the MPAA. A film might be promoted in trailers and other advertisements ahead of receiving an official MPAA rating with the disclaimer “This Film is Not Yet Rated.”

On the other hand, the “Unrated” label is most commonly applied to alternate cuts of a film that differ from the initial theatrical release. An “Unrated” cut of a film often exists alongside a rated cut of the film. It commonly appears on home video releases or re-releases that contain additional footage or do not maintain the cuts initially made to ensure a lighter rating from the MPAA.

Saw rated vs. unrated comparison  •  Film rating organization

Because of the voluntary nature of the film rating system, some filmmakers would choose to leave a film as “Not Rated” rather than take on an X rating. Films like Day of the Dead and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Part 2 remained “Not Rated” after being refused R ratings from the MPAA. NR films received some of the same screening and advertising limitations as X-rated films but were sometimes afforded more leeway and avoided the pornographic connotation of the X rating.

What is Pre-Code Hollywood?

What is pre-code Hollywood? Before the movie rating system was introduced and before the Hays Code was enacted, the state of Hollywood censorship was vastly different. Learn all about pre-code Hollywood, up next.

Up Next: Pre-Code Hollywood →

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The Tomatometer score – based on the opinions of hundreds of film and television critics – is a trusted measurement of critical recommendation for millions of fans.

Back in the days of the open theaters, when a play was particularly atrocious, the audience expressed their dissatisfaction by not only booing and hissing at the stage, but also throwing whatever was at hand – vegetables and fruits included.

The Tomatometer score represents the percentage of professional critic reviews that are positive for a given film or television show. A Tomatometer score is calculated for a movie or TV show after it receives at least five reviews.

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Apr 4, 2024 • knowledge, information, article details, how are films rated on fandango at home and what do the ratings mean.

Fandango at Home uses the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) ratings, described below, to rate content on our service. Rated G A G-rated motion picture contains nothing in theme, language, nudity, sex, violence or other matters that, in the view of the Rating Board, would offend parents whose younger children view the motion picture. The G rating is not a “certificate of approval,” nor does it signify a “children’s” motion picture. Some snippets of language may go beyond polite conversation but they are common everyday expressions. No stronger words are present in G-rated motion pictures. Depictions of violence are minimal. No nudity, sex scenes or drug use are present in the motion picture. Rated PG A PG-rated motion picture should be investigated by parents before they let their younger children attend. The PG rating indicates, in the view of the Rating Board, that parents may consider some material unsuitable for their children, and parents should make that decision. The more mature themes in some PG-rated motion pictures may call for parental guidance. There may be some profanity and some depictions of violence or brief nudity. But these elements are not deemed so intense as to require that parents be strongly cautioned beyond the suggestion of parental guidance. There is no drug use content in a PG-rated motion picture. Rated PG-13 A PG-13 rating is a sterner warning by the Rating Board to parents to determine whether their children under age 13 should view the motion picture, as some material might not be suited for them. A PG-13 motion picture may go beyond the PG rating in theme, violence, nudity, sensuality, language, adult activities or other elements, but does not reach the restricted R category. The theme of the motion picture by itself will not result in a rating greater than PG-13, although depictions of activities related to a mature theme may result in a restricted rating for the motion picture. Any drug use will initially require at least a PG-13 rating. More than brief nudity will require at least a PG-13 rating, but such nudity in a PG-13 rated motion picture generally will not be sexually oriented. There may be depictions of violence in a PG-13 movie, but generally not both realistic and extreme or persistent violence. A motion picture’s single use of one of the harsher sexually-derived words, though only as an expletive, initially requires at least a PG-13 rating. More than one such expletive requires an R rating, as must even one of those words used in a sexual context. The Rating Board nevertheless may rate such a motion picture PG-13 if, based on a special vote by a two-thirds majority, the Raters feel that most American parents would believe that a PG-13 rating is appropriate because of the context or manner in which the words are used or because the use of those words in the motion picture is inconspicuous. Rated R An R-rated motion picture, in the view of the Rating Board, contains some adult material. An R-rated motion picture may include adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements, so that parents are counseled to take this rating very seriously. Children under 17 are not allowed to attend R-rated motion pictures unaccompanied by a parent or adult guardian. Parents are strongly urged to find out more about R-rated motion pictures in determining their suitability for their children. Generally, it is not appropriate for parents to bring their young children with them to R-rated motion pictures. Rated NC-17 An NC-17 rated motion picture is one that, in the view of the Rating Board, most parents would consider patently too adult for their children 17 and under. No children will be admitted. NC-17 does not mean “obscene” or “pornographic” in the common or legal meaning of those words and should not be construed as a negative judgment in any sense. The rating simply signals that the content is appropriate only for an adult audience. An NC-17 rating can be based on violence, sex, aberrational behavior, drug abuse or any other element that most parents would consider too strong and therefore off-limits for viewing by their children.

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Film Symbolism – A Comprehensive Guide

Film symbolism is a powerful tool used by filmmakers to convey deeper meanings and evoke emotions in their audience. It involves the use of visual, audio, and narrative elements to represent ideas, themes, or concepts that go beyond the surface level of the story. Film symbolism adds depth and complexity to a film, allowing viewers to engage with the story on a more profound level. In this article, we will explore the definition of film symbolism, its importance in cinema, its history from silent movies to modern blockbusters, the different types of film symbols, the role of color, objects and props, sound and music, nature, numbers and patterns in film symbolism, the interpretation of film symbols by audiences, and the future of film symbolism in the digital age.

The Definition of Film Symbolism and Its Importance in Cinema

Film symbolism can be defined as the use of visual, audio, and narrative elements to represent ideas, themes, or concepts that go beyond the surface level of the story. It is a way for filmmakers to communicate with their audience on a deeper level and evoke emotions or provoke thoughts. Symbolism in cinema is important because it adds depth and complexity to a film. It allows filmmakers to convey abstract or complex ideas in a more accessible and engaging way. By using symbols, filmmakers can create a visual language that transcends cultural barriers and speaks directly to the emotions and subconscious of the audience.

The History of Film Symbolism: From Silent Movies to Modern Blockbusters

The use of symbolism in film can be traced back to the early days of cinema. In silent movies, filmmakers relied heavily on visual symbols to convey meaning since there was no dialogue. For example, in F.W. Murnau’s 1922 film “Nosferatu,” the vampire Count Orlok is depicted with long fingers and sharp nails, symbolizing his predatory nature. This visual symbol effectively communicates his sinister character to the audience.

As cinema evolved, so did the use of symbolism. In modern blockbusters, filmmakers have a wide range of tools at their disposal to create symbolic meaning. They can use visual symbols, audio symbols, and narrative symbols to convey their intended message. For example, in Christopher Nolan’s 2010 film “Inception,” the spinning top is used as a visual symbol to represent the protagonist’s reality. The spinning top becomes a recurring motif throughout the film, leaving the audience questioning what is real and what is a dream.

The Different Types of Film Symbols: Visual, Audio, and Narrative

Film symbols can take various forms, including visual symbols, audio symbols, and narrative symbols. Each type of symbol has its own significance and contributes to the overall meaning of the film.

Visual symbols are perhaps the most common and easily recognizable form of film symbolism. They can be objects, colors, or even specific shots or compositions. For example, in Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 film “2001: A Space Odyssey,” the monolith is a visual symbol that represents the unknown and the evolution of humanity. Its simple black rectangular shape stands out against the vastness of space, creating a sense of mystery and awe.

Audio symbols are another powerful tool used by filmmakers to convey meaning. They can be sounds or music that evoke certain emotions or represent specific ideas or themes. For example, in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 film “Psycho,” the screeching violins in the famous shower scene have become an iconic audio symbol for terror and suspense.

Narrative symbols are elements within the story itself that carry symbolic meaning. They can be characters, events, or even recurring motifs. For example, in Francis Ford Coppola’s 1972 film “The Godfather,” oranges are used as a narrative symbol to foreshadow death or danger. Whenever oranges appear in a scene, it signals that something bad is about to happen.

The Role of Color in Film Symbolism: How Directors Use It to Convey Emotions

Color plays a significant role in film symbolism. Filmmakers use color to convey emotions, create atmosphere, and enhance the narrative. Each color has its own symbolic meaning and can evoke different emotions in the audience.

For example, the color red is often associated with passion, love, or danger. In Martin Scorsese’s 1990 film “Goodfellas,” the color red is used to symbolize violence and bloodshed. Whenever a character wears or interacts with something red, it foreshadows a violent event or signifies their involvement in criminal activities.

On the other hand, the color blue is often associated with calmness, tranquility, or sadness. In James Cameron’s 2009 film “Avatar,” the lush blue world of Pandora represents a peaceful and harmonious environment. The blue color palette creates a sense of serenity and beauty, contrasting with the harshness of the human world.

The Use of Objects and Props as Symbols in Film: From Rosebuds to Red Balloons

Objects and props can also be used as symbols in film to represent ideas or themes. They can be everyday objects or specific items that hold symbolic meaning within the context of the story.

For example, in Orson Welles’ 1941 film “Citizen Kane,” the sled named Rosebud is a powerful symbol that represents the lost innocence and happiness of the protagonist’s childhood. The sled appears throughout the film as a recurring motif, reminding the audience of Kane’s longing for a simpler time.

In another example, in Stephen King’s 1986 novel and subsequent 2017 film adaptation “It,” the red balloon is used as a symbol for Pennywise, the evil clown. The red balloon represents danger and serves as a warning sign for the characters in the story.

The Importance of Sound and Music in Film Symbolism: How They Enhance the Narrative

Sound and music play a crucial role in film symbolism. They can enhance the narrative, evoke emotions, and create a sense of atmosphere or tension.

For example, in Steven Spielberg’s 1975 film “Jaws,” the iconic two-note theme composed by John Williams has become synonymous with impending danger. The simple yet effective melody creates a sense of suspense and fear, alerting the audience to the presence of the shark.

In another example, in Darren Aronofsky’s 2010 film “Black Swan,” the use of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” as the main musical motif adds depth and complexity to the story. The music represents the duality of the protagonist’s character and mirrors her transformation from innocence to darkness.

The Symbolism of Nature in Film: From Sunsets to Storms

Nature is often used as a symbol in film to represent various ideas or themes. Filmmakers use natural elements such as sunsets, storms, or landscapes to convey emotions or create a specific mood.

For example, in Terrence Malick’s 2011 film “The Tree of Life,” nature is used as a symbol for spirituality and the interconnectedness of all living beings. The film is filled with stunning shots of nature, including vast landscapes and flowing rivers, which serve as a visual representation of the characters’ search for meaning and purpose.

In another example, in Ang Lee’s 2000 film “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” rain is used as a symbol for emotional turmoil and inner conflict. The rain serves as a backdrop for intense fight scenes and reflects the characters’ emotional state.

The Symbolism of Numbers and Patterns in Film: How They Add Depth to the Story

Numbers and patterns can add depth to a film by creating a sense of order or highlighting specific themes or ideas. Filmmakers use numbers and patterns to convey hidden meanings or add layers of complexity to the story.

For example, in Christopher Nolan’s 2014 film “Interstellar,” the number 5 is used as a recurring motif throughout the film. The number represents the five dimensions of space-time and serves as a symbol for the protagonist’s journey through time and space.

In another example, in Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 film “The Shining,” patterns are used to create a sense of unease and disorientation. The iconic carpet pattern in the Overlook Hotel becomes a visual symbol for the protagonist’s descent into madness.

The Interpretation of Film Symbols: How Audiences Can Decipher Hidden Meanings

Audiences play a crucial role in interpreting film symbols. While filmmakers may have intended certain symbols to convey specific meanings, audiences can interpret them differently based on their own experiences and perspectives.

For example, in David Lynch’s 2001 film “Mulholland Drive,” the blue key is a visual symbol that represents the protagonist’s desire for control and power. However, audiences have interpreted the symbol in various ways, with some seeing it as a representation of the subconscious or a key to unlocking hidden truths.

In another example, in Christopher Nolan’s 2010 film “Inception,” the spinning top at the end of the film has sparked countless debates and interpretations among audiences. Some believe that the top falling signifies reality, while others argue that it represents a dream.

The Future of Film Symbolism: How It Will Continue to Evolve in the Digital Age

As technology continues to advance, so does the potential for film symbolism. With the advent of CGI and virtual reality, filmmakers have even more tools at their disposal to create immersive and symbolic experiences for their audience.

For example, in James Cameron’s 2009 film “Avatar,” the use of 3D technology enhances the immersive nature of the film and allows the audience to experience the world of Pandora in a more visceral way. The use of 3D technology adds depth and dimension to the visual symbols, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for the audience.

In another example, in Denis Villeneuve’s 2017 film “Blade Runner 2049,” the use of holographic projections as visual symbols adds a layer of complexity to the story. The holographic projections represent the blurred lines between reality and illusion, highlighting the themes of identity and memory.

Film symbolism is a powerful tool used by filmmakers to convey deeper meanings and evoke emotions in their audience. It adds depth and complexity to a film, allowing viewers to engage with the story on a more profound level. Through visual, audio, and narrative symbols, filmmakers can communicate abstract or complex ideas in a more accessible and engaging way. The future of film symbolism in the digital age holds great potential for even more immersive and symbolic experiences. As technology continues to advance, filmmakers will have even more tools at their disposal to create meaningful and impactful films. Film symbolism will continue to evolve and captivate audiences for years to come.

If you’re fascinated by the hidden meanings and deeper layers of symbolism in films, you’ll definitely want to check out this comprehensive guide on Film Symbolism. It delves into the intricate ways in which filmmakers use symbols to convey powerful messages and evoke emotions. As you explore the world of symbolism, you might also be interested in understanding the symbolism of the sun. This related article from Symbolism Hub explores the various interpretations and significance of the sun as a symbol. Discover how this celestial body has been used to represent life, energy, enlightenment, and much more. Read more

What is film symbolism?

Film symbolism is the use of objects, characters, or actions to represent abstract ideas or concepts in a film. It is a technique used by filmmakers to convey deeper meanings and messages to the audience.

Why is film symbolism important?

Film symbolism is important because it adds depth and complexity to a film. It allows filmmakers to convey ideas and themes that may be difficult to express through dialogue or action alone. It also allows the audience to engage with the film on a deeper level and interpret the meaning behind the symbols.

What are some common symbols used in films?

Common symbols used in films include colors, animals, objects, and numbers. For example, the color red is often used to symbolize passion or danger, while the number three is often used to represent unity or completion.

How do filmmakers use symbolism in their films?

Filmmakers use symbolism in their films by incorporating objects, characters, or actions that represent abstract ideas or concepts. They may use recurring symbols throughout the film to reinforce a particular theme or message.

What are some examples of films that use symbolism?

Some examples of films that use symbolism include “The Matrix,” which uses the color green to represent the artificial world, and “The Shawshank Redemption,” which uses the character of the bird to symbolize freedom.

How can I analyze the symbolism in a film?

To analyze the symbolism in a film, you should look for recurring symbols and consider what they might represent. You should also consider the context in which the symbols are used and how they relate to the overall themes and messages of the film.

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‘Tár’ Ending Explained: What Is the Meaning of the Maze?

Where to stream:.

Tár is now streaming on Peacock Premium , which is great news for anyone who loves watching Cate Blanchett strut around in a tailored suit. (And, really, who doesn’t love that?)

It’s also great news for anyone who wants to give this drama about a problematic conductor another look, because Tár is definitely the kind of movie you’ll want to watch more than once. Written and directed by Todd Field, who wrote the role specifically for its Oscar-nominated star Cate Blanchett, Tár is a brilliant commentary on art, gender, power, and abuse. But it is also, at times, confusing.

Though it may seem slow-moving—with a runtime clocking in at two hours and 37 minutes—every moment of this movie is important to the story. This isn’t the kind of movie you can watch while scrolling through TikTok. That said, if you did miss something, or if you got confused, you can rest easy because Decider is here to help. Read on for a complete breakdown of the Tár movie plot and the Tár  movie explained, including what the heck that maze means.

Tar movie plot explained:

We meet Lydia Tár as she’s being introduced to a crowd at Lincoln Center, for an on-stage conversation with a writer from The New Yorker. The reporter lists off Tár’s impressive resumé as a world-renowned pianist, composer, and conductor—although the fact that Tár’s personal assistant, Francesca (Noémie Merlant), knows this introduction by heart suggests that the praise was pre-written by Tár’s team (perhaps, even, written by Francesca), and not by the New Yorker writer. (Later, Tár edits her own Wikipedia page to add The New Yorker ‘s claim that she is one of “the most important musical figures of our era.”)

Tár, we learn, is not a very nice person. While guest-lecturing at Julliard, she humiliates a young, non-white composing student who says he’s not interested in old, white composers like Mozart. Tár suggests that the student is only interested in composers that he wants to sleep with. Tár proves herself to be a hypocrite later, when she is selecting a new cellist for her orchestra, and picks a pretty, young woman named Olga (Sophie Kauer) based on her looks, and not on her talent. She cheats on her wife, Sharon (Nina Hoss), and does not play an active role in raising their young child together.

Meanwhile, Tár’s assistant Francesca is concerned about a young woman named Krista Taylor, who was a fellow at Tár’s Accordion Foundation program, which she founded to help aspiring female conductors. Krista has been sending Francesca increasingly desperate emails, which Tár instructs Francesca to ignore. It’s later implied that Tár had a sexual relationship with Krista that ended badly—or, perhaps, that Krista rebuffed Tár’s advances, it’s never made clear—which resulted in Tár blacklisting Krista in the music world. (This is not unlike how convicted rapist and former Hollywood bigwig Harvey Weinstein would blacklist actresses who accused him of sexual misconduct.)

Throughout the film, Krista haunts Tár. She sends Tár a copy of Vita Sackville-West’s novel Challenge , which reflects Sackville-West’s own torrid love affair with another woman. Inside the cover of the book, Krista has drawn a maze. This seems to mean something to Tár, as she angrily tears the page out of the book. The emails continue, and despite Francesca’s pleas that Tár responds, she refuses. Then Krista commits suicide, and Tár instructs Francesca to delete all the emails that Krista sent. Tár also deletes all the emails she sent in which she advised orchestras and other music programs not to hire Krista. She also hires a lawyer, in case Krista’s parents try to sue.

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Stream It Or Skip It: 'Our Living World' On Netflix, A Cate Blanchett-Narrated Nature Series That Shows The Connections Between All Living Things

11 best new shows on netflix: april 2024's top upcoming series to watch, taika waititi discusses plans for potential ‘thor 5’: "we need to step up", stream it or skip it: ‘tár’ on prime video, a gorgeous and eccentric drama starring a wily cate blanchett as a master conductor.

Though Krista is dead, Tár is still haunted by her. She is increasingly sensitive to noise—like a metronome ticking in the night, that wakes her up, leading to her finding another maze that resembles the one Krista drew in the book. Tár’s life begins to deteriorate. She fires her assistant conductor, Sebastian, and plans to replace him with Francesca, until Sebastian accuses Tár of sleeping with her assistant and granting favors to young, beautiful women. As a result, Tár finds a different replacement, which drives Francesca to quit. Francesca does this without informing Tár, and purposefully doesn’t tell her that Tár has been called to a deposition regarding Krista’s death.

Tár continues to see Olga—the hot young cellist whom she unfairly granted a solo–for intimate, private lessons. One time, she drives Olga home and then runs after her when Olga forgets a personal item. Wandering Olga’s eerie, dilapidated apartment complex, Tár is frightened by a dog, falls, and injures her face. She tells her wife and others that she was attacked by a mugger.

A heavily and creatively edited video of Tár humiliating that student of color at Julliard goes viral, along with a New York Post article outlining accusations that Tár groomed young women. In the deposition regarding Krista’s suicide, the opposing lawyers reveal they have obtained email exchanges between Tár and Krista, likely provided by Francesca. The company that finances the Accordion Foundation, pulls the funding.

Tar movie ending explained:

Tár is fired as the Berlin orchestra conductor due to the accusations and controversy swirling around her. This is not shown explicitly, but while on a run, she sees a poster with her replacement’s face on it, advertising the upcoming performance, and tears it down. Her wife separates from Tár, and prohibits her from seeing their daughter, Petra.

On the night of the Berlin orchestra’s big performance, Tár hides in the concert hall’s bathroom. Then, dressed in a finely tailored suit, she tackles her replacement while he’s conducting on stage, and attempts to reclaim her podium. That replacement is revealed to be Elliot Kaplan, the man who used to fund the Accordion Foundation and once asked Tár to help him get conducting jobs.

Tár returns to her run-down childhood home on Staten Island. It’s revealed that she was born Linda Tarr, and that she changed her name to separate herself from her working-class roots. She watches an old tape of Leonard Bernstein’s first episode of Young People’s Concerts, “What Does Music Mean?” and is deeply moved.

We find Lydia Tár sometime later, working as a conductor in the Phillippines. She goes to a massage parlor, where she is offered a selection of beautiful young women, and asked to pick one to be her masseuse. All the women are looking down, not speaking, and not making eye contact. Tár, overcome by revulsion, runs out of the building and vomits.

In the movie’s final scene, Tár is conducting an orchestra, and prepares for it with the same air of grandiose that she always does. But then the camera pans to the audience, and reveals she is conducting the score for a fantasy video game in front of an audience of cosplayers. With that, the movie ends.

What is the Tar ending meaning?

At the risk of offending cosplayers, Field clearly wanted to emphasize with that final shot how far Lydia Tár has fallen. Her life and career is now a laughing stock. All of the prestige and acclaim she enjoyed so much is gone. Instead of being lavished with praise in front of an audience at Lincoln Center, as we saw in the first scene, she has been reduced to the “low” art of video game music.

That said, Field also shows us that Tár feels some remorse for her actions. When she is presented with the array of young, beautiful women for her massage, she realizes this is how she has always used her position of power to pick beautiful women out of a line-up, essentially, to be her play thing. She is overcome with remorse and revulsion at her own actions, which is why she vomits in the street.

What does the maze from Tar mean?

Great question! The movie never explains why Krista drew a maze in the book she sent Tár, though, obviously, the symbol seemed to mean something to the conductor. The maze shows up again in the scene when Lydia discovers the metronome in the middle of the night, and a third time drawn on the papers that are scattered on the floor of Francesca’s abandoned apartment. So what the heck does that maze mean? Is it because Lydia Tár is stuck in a labyrinth of her own making? Is it because, as one Redditor suggests, her name is Tar, as in MinoTAUR, the mythical Greek creature that lived in a labyrinth?

My interpretation? It’s an inside joke that Lydia Tár once had with Krista in another lifetime. We don’t need to know what it means, we just need to know that it means something to our protagonist, and that it meant something to Krista. It’s a symbol that shows Lydia knew Krista intimately enough to have a way of communicating with her that the outside world—like us—couldn’t understand.

But that’s just me.

• Ending Explained
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Men Movie Plot Explained: The True Meaning of the Film

Men is a heavy, yet not subtle, film focusing on the horrors of the patriarchy in society—one that has plenty of meaning to make out of its open-ended plot.

The film, directed by Civil War Director Alex Garland , follows Jessie Buckley’s Harper Marlow, who is looking for a place to heal after some recent trauma. 

The house she chooses to rent looks like the perfect place—that is, until it, and the whole town, becomes subject to some seriously disturbing inhabitants.

The Trauma That Frames Men

The entire story revolves around Jessie Buckley’s Harper Marlow wanting to get away and heal following severely traumatic events.

Harper was in a year-long marriage with a man named James, whom she eventually wanted to divorce. James does not like this, and it becomes clear to audiences that he is an extremely emotionally manipulative person, someone who even goes as far as threatening suicide if his wife were actually to leave him.

This chain of events unfolds throughout the film in flashbacks, where things eventually escalate to James being physically abusive. After completely flipping out on him (rightfully so, of course), things somehow go from bad to worse.

The next time Harper sees her husband, they seemingly lock eyes through her window as he is falling from the floor above her apartment—brutally landing on the fence post and ground below, dying, and leaving viewers with a gruesome visual to remember.

What Happens in the End?

After getting to town, the rest of the film slowly explores Harper’s interactions with various locals, all men, who are all played by Rory Kinnear. 

Among the many types of people Kinnear plays are a leisurely rental owner, a crazy naked dude, a policeman, casual bargoers, a priest, and more.

All of these men illicit traits of toxic masculinity, with a heaping load of gaslighting to go with it all.

A child with Rory Kinnear’s face calls Harper a “bitch” for not playing with them, the vicar tries to pin James’ death on Harper, and the cop sees nothing wrong with releasing the briefly arrested naked crazy man from police custody despite the clear threat to Harper’s safety.

Things finally reach a breaking point when all of the men Harper had encountered throughout the film start attacking her at the house, including the previously well-mannered Geoggrey. 

It doesn’t take long for the whole situation to nosedive even further into an absolute nightmare.

It’s hard to describe in words what exactly happens, but, starting with the naked man, these men begin giving birth to other men—forming a birthing chain that cycles through all of the different personalities of Kinnear’s various personas throughout the piece. 

The body horror that ensues is intense, to say the least.

After all the birthing is said and done, audiences are left with a newly born James, who admits he just wants Harper’s love.

The final shot of the movie jumps ahead a few hours and sees Harper’s friend arriving at the leftover destruction at the house,

The Deeper Meaning of Men

Men is a difficult film to completely parse out and understand, and one could argue that this is detrimental to the movie’s quality. But the filmmakers are certainly trying to say something here.

One can't help but feel that the fact every guy Harper meets has the same face is indicative of something more profound.

Did director Alex Garland want to imply that these toxic traits and tendencies are inherently part of all men? 

More than likely, this is simply meant to be the viewpoint of Harper as a character given everything she has experienced, and not some overt message about an entire gender.

Or perhaps Garland just wanted to make it less personable to lean further into the wide-sweeping allegory the film portrays.

There aren't many certainties when it comes to the film’s meaning; it is just a lot of open-ended symbolism meant to be interpreted however audiences take it. One thing is for sure, though: don't look for a coherent or meaningful plot here.

That is to say, the film's events aren’t meant to be taken literally by audiences—this movie exists to explore allegories and not much more. 

Any and all detailed story or character exploration is overtaken by the rampant symbolism, for better or worse.

One such subject matter is how the movie has plenty to say about the patriarchy and the negative traits associated with those in it and their common toxic masculinity.

Another key idea is how, no matter the issue, it is always framed as a woman’s fault, no matter the circumstance—twisted in a way that takes the blame away from the man. This is most represented by all the gaslighting happening throughout and how each man frames any given scenario.

This goes along well with all the Adam-Eve imagery, starting with the opening scene of Harper eating an apple from the garden of her new rental home. Eve was the one who ate the apple and, therefore, carries the sins of all man, if that’s how one wants to read it.

The film also literally portrays the ugliness of the patriarchy and its foundational sexism. Each version of Kinnear’s character who is birthed becomes more and more pathetic and weak as it progresses—a metaphor for how 

Despite the horror of the situation on the outside, Harper finds herself getting less frightened as it unfolds—right up to when she calmly asks her newly birthed dead ex-husband what he wants. A question to which he provides a fittingly sad excuse: he just wants her love. 

While Men might not have anything definitive to say, there’s plenty to take away from its allegorical narrative.

Men is currently streaming on Max .

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Taylor Swift Has Given Fans a Lot. Is It Finally Too Much?

Swift has been inescapable over the last year. With the release of “The Tortured Poets Department,” her latest (very long) album, some seem to finally be feeling fatigued.

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By Matt Stevens and Shivani Gonzalez

Four new studio albums. Four rerecorded albums, too. A $1 billion oxygen-sucking world tour with a concert movie to match. And, of course, one very high-profile relationship that spilled over into the Super Bowl .

For some, the constant deluge that has peaked in the past year is starting to add up to a new (and previously unthinkable) feeling: Taylor Swift fatigue.

And it is a feeling that has only solidified online in the days following the release of “The Tortured Poets Department,” which morphed from a 16-song album into a 31-song, two-hour epic just hours after its release .

Many critics (including The New York Times’s own) have suggested that the album was overstuffed — simply not her best. And critiques of the music have now opened a sliver of space for a wider round of complaint unlike any Swift has faced over her prolific and world-conquering recent run.

“It’s almost like if you produce too much… too fast… in a brazen attempt to completely saturate and dominate a market rather than having something important or even halfway interesting to say… the art suffers!” Chris Murphy, a staff writer at Vanity Fair, posted on X .

Which is not to say nobody listened to the album; far from it. Spotify said “Poets,” which was released on Friday, became the most-streamed album in a single day with more than 300 million streams .

And of course, many of Swift’s most ardent fans, known as “Swifties,” loved her 11th album or, at least, have decided to air any reservations in private conversations. The first days of the album’s release have been greeted with the usual lyrical dissections for key allusions hidden within the songs, attention to every word that few other artists receive.

But others, including some self-identified Swift fans, have freely admitted frustration. Fans and critics alike have contended that Swift’s lyrics have become a tad verbose and that the tracks on this latest album — many of them breakup songs — sounded a whole lot like others she has already put out . The internet has also provided an almost unlimited supply of jokes about the length of the album .

Some admonished Swift for selling so many versions of “Poets” only to double its size after those orders were in, part of a cynically corporate rollout . (Care for the CD , vinyl or the Phantom Clear vinyl ?) The Daily Mail cobbled together what it deemed “The 10 WORST lyrics in Taylor Swift’s new album — ranked!”

For its part, Reductress , the satirical women’s magazine, offered a post titled “Woman Doing Her Best to Like New Taylor Swift Album Lest She Face the Consequences.”

Those who dare to publicly criticize Swift are acutely aware of the potential for backlash. Murphy, the Vanity Fair writer, made a dark joke about it . At least one X user who posted a lengthy thread eviscerating Swift, the album and its rollout took the post private after it got more than three million views. Paste Magazine opted not to put a byline on its harsh review of Swift’s album, citing safety concerns for the writer.

In an unusual twist, even Swift herself is widely viewed as admonishing her most militant defenders in one particular song on the new album, “But Daddy I Love Him.” Some contingents of Swift’s fanbase strongly disapproved of her brief relationship with Matty Healy of the 1975 and appear to now be bristling at the amount of record real estate Healy consumes on the latest album .

Weird, complicated times in Taylor land.

“It might be a tough few days for the fanbase,” Nathan Hubbard, a co-host of the Ringer podcast, “ Every Single Album ,” wrote in a social media thread about “Poets” on Friday . “They’ll hear some valid criticism they aren’t used to (if the critics dare), and for many they’ll have to reconcile their own truth that this isn’t their favorite, while still rightly celebrating it and supporting her.”

Indeed, grinding through the 31-song double album after midnight had felt like “a hostage situation,” Hubbard wrote.

On a new podcast episode, which was released over the weekend, Hubbard and his co-host, Nora Princiotti, were among those who pointed out that while the album may be imperfect, Swift simply may have needed to purge herself of the songs on “Poets” to process a turbulent time in her life.

Princiotti said she enjoyed much of the album and was careful to stipulate that “Poets” did contain several “special songs.”

But she also allowed for some “tough love.”

“Musically, I do not really hear anything new,” she said, adding that Swift “could have done a little bit more self editing.”

“I don’t think the fact that this is a double-album that is more than two hours in length serves what’s good about it,” Princiotti said. “And I think that for the second album in a row, I’m still sort of left going, ‘OK, where do we go from here?’”

Princiotti ultimately graded “Poets” a “B.” And in the world of her podcast and universe of Taylor Swift, Princiotti acknowledged — that might have been an all-time low.

An earlier version of this article misstated the title of Taylor Swift’s new album. It is “The Tortured Poets Department,” not “The Tortured Poets Society.”

How we handle corrections

Matt Stevens writes about arts and culture news for The Times. More about Matt Stevens

Shivani Gonzalez is a news assistant at The Times who writes a weekly TV column and contributes to a variety of sections. More about Shivani Gonzalez

Inside the World of Taylor Swift

A Triumph at the Grammys: Taylor Swift made history  by winning her fourth album of the year at the 2024 edition of the awards, an event that saw women take many of the top awards .

‘The T ortured Poets Department’: Poets reacted to Swift’s new album name , weighing in on the pertinent question: What do the tortured poets think ?  

In the Public Eye: The budding romance between Swift and the football player Travis Kelce created a monocultural vortex that reached its apex  at the Super Bowl in Las Vegas. Ahead of kickoff, we revisited some key moments in their relationship .

Politics (Taylor’s Version): After months of anticipation, Swift made her first foray into the 2024 election for Super Tuesday with a bipartisan message on Instagram . The singer, who some believe has enough influence  to affect the result of the election , has yet to endorse a presidential candidate.

Conspiracy Theories: In recent months, conspiracy theories about Swift and her relationship with Kelce have proliferated , largely driven by supporters of former President Donald Trump . The pop star's fans are shaking them off .