Rotten Tomatoes is one of the most influential review aggregation platforms in the entertainment industry, known for its “Tomatometer” score that quickly informs audiences whether a movie or TV show is generally well-received or not. Launched in 1998, Rotten Tomatoes compiles reviews from professional critics and, more recently, audiences, offering a snapshot of critical consensus in an easily digestible format. A high Tomatometer score—60% or above—means the film is “Fresh,” while anything below is labeled “Rotten.” A “Certified Fresh” badge is reserved for works with particularly strong reviews and wide appeal. These labels have become shorthand for quality in modern pop culture.
What sets Rotten Tomatoes apart is its aggregation method. Instead of assigning an average numerical score, it calculates the percentage of positive reviews out of the total. For example, if 75 out of 100 critics give a film a favorable review, the movie gets a 75% Fresh rating. This method offers a clear overview of general opinion, although it doesn’t reflect the intensity of the reviews—a mildly positive and a glowing review are weighted equally. To complement the critic score, Rotten Tomatoes also features an “Audience Score,” which reflects user-submitted ratings and provides a grassroots counterpoint to professional criticism.
Rotten Tomatoes has become a powerful tool for moviegoers and streaming audiences when deciding what to watch. For studios and filmmakers, a high score can significantly impact a movie’s box office success or streaming performance, while a low rating may deter audiences. In some cases, studios time the lifting of review embargoes to maximize or minimize the influence of the Tomatometer score. Because of this, Rotten Tomatoes holds a surprising level of influence over both consumer behavior and industry marketing strategies, despite the fact that individual tastes can vary widely from the critical consensus.
While some critics argue that Rotten Tomatoes oversimplifies nuanced opinions, many appreciate its role in democratizing access to critical voices. The platform also includes links to full reviews, giving users the opportunity to explore more in-depth commentary. As entertainment options multiply across platforms and formats, Rotten Tomatoes remains a trusted guide for audiences seeking quality content. Whether you’re choosing a weekend movie or debating whether a new show is worth your time, Rotten Tomatoes continues to shape how we evaluate and discover entertainment in the digital age.