Rotten Tomatoes is a popular review aggregation website that compiles movie and TV show reviews, providing a score based on the percentage of positive reviews from critics and audiences. This platform has significantly influenced how films are marketed and perceived, reflecting both the historical evolution of film criticism and the rise of digital technology. It serves as a key player in online film criticism by offering various formats for engagement and has opened up discussions about diversifying voices in the critical landscape.
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Rotten Tomatoes was founded in 1998 by Senh Duong, initially as a side project to help consumers find which movies were worth watching.
The platform uses a unique 'fresh' or 'rotten' designation to classify reviews, which has become a cultural touchstone in discussions about film quality.
In recent years, Rotten Tomatoes has faced scrutiny for its aggregation method and the representation of diverse voices in film criticism.
The site not only aggregates critic reviews but also allows users to leave their own ratings and reviews, fostering community engagement.
With the rise of social media, Rotten Tomatoes scores have become an essential part of movie marketing campaigns, influencing box office performance.
Review Questions
How has Rotten Tomatoes changed the landscape of film criticism over time?
Rotten Tomatoes has transformed film criticism by providing a centralized platform where both professional critics and regular viewers can express their opinions. Its aggregation of reviews into simple scores allows for quick assessments of a film's reception, making it easier for audiences to decide what to watch. This shift towards instant accessibility reflects the broader history and evolution of film criticism as it adapts to modern consumption habits.
Discuss the impact of digital technology on Rotten Tomatoes and its role in film criticism today.
Digital technology has enabled Rotten Tomatoes to thrive as an online platform that aggregates vast amounts of data from critics and audiences. This technological advancement allows for real-time updates and immediate feedback on films, which is crucial for the fast-paced nature of contemporary media. As a result, Rotten Tomatoes plays a significant role in shaping public perception and discussion around films, acting as a barometer for success or failure in the industry.
Evaluate the implications of Rotten Tomatoes' influence on the diversification of voices within film criticism.
The influence of Rotten Tomatoes raises important questions about whose voices are being amplified in film criticism. While it offers a space for audience ratings, concerns remain about the representation of diverse perspectives among critics whose reviews are included on the site. Evaluating this dynamic highlights the need for more inclusive practices in film criticism, ensuring that underrepresented voices contribute to the discourse surrounding films and their cultural significance.
Related terms
Critic Score: A numerical representation of the percentage of positive reviews from professional critics on Rotten Tomatoes.
Audience Score: A metric indicating the percentage of positive ratings given by general viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
Film Review: A written or spoken evaluation of a film's content, style, and effectiveness, often influencing public perception and critical discourse.