Are Rotten Tomatoes Critics Biased? Debunking the Snake Oil of Film Reviews

The internet is replete with discussions about the validity and accuracy of film critics' opinions found on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes. Some vehemently believe that these critics are biased, particularly when contrasting positive audience scores with negative critical ones. Is there any truth to this accusation? Let's delve into the details.

Bias in Film Critiques: A Case Study

Consider the case of The Batman versus Turning Red. While The Batman garnered an 85% on Rotten Tomatoes, Turning Red picked up a higher 94%. This stark difference might lead one to believe that the critics are indeed biased, favoring edgier, more well-received films. However, similar biases can be observed in other instances as well.

A notable example is Chappelle's Sticks and Stones. Critics left a low score up for three weeks before allowing audience scores, which subsequently soared. On the flip side, Hannah Gadsby's non-comedic, socially-conscious performance work garnered high audience scores but were met with low critical scores.

Is There Evidence of Bias?

There is certainly evidence to suggest bias. Critics aligned with certain narratives or causes might skew their reviews in a particular direction. For instance, when Dave Chappelle's "Sticks and Stones" and Rambo: Last Blood were reviewed, the disparity in scores between critics and audiences becomes quite apparent. Such instances raise questions about the objectivity of these critics.

These biases aren't limited to individual content but can stem from broader influences. For example, the media empire of Rupert Murdoch, which owns multiple film, TV, and news platforms, often promotes a certain narrative. Critics aligned with such enterprises might exhibit significant bias, pushing certain ideologies while marginalizing others.

The Subjectivity of Film Criticism

One might argue that film criticism is inherently subjective. Critics are human, and their opinions are influenced by personal tastes, cultural backgrounds, and current social climates. However, this subjectivity can be muddied by external factors.

Just because a critic enjoys a film doesn't mean the public will, and vice versa. Audience reviews should not be dismissed outright but rather considered as part of a broader spectrum of opinions. Critics should be held accountable for their reasoning behind their ratings, not just their final judgments.

What Should You Do?

Given the prevalence of bias in film reviews, it's crucial to approach these opinions with a critical mindset. Instead of relying solely on Rotten Tomatoes' scores or a single critic's opinion, consider a variety of reviews to form a balanced perspective. Multiple sources can help you make an informed decision about a film.

Another option is to read a mix of both critic and audience reviews. This approach can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the film in question. Remember, the most important opinion is your own. Taking the time to watch the film and form your own perspective can yield a richer and more fulfilling viewing experience.

In conclusion, while critics on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes can be biased, it's essential to remain skeptical and consider multiple perspectives. By doing so, you can navigate the often murky waters of film criticism and make more informed decisions about the movies you choose to watch.