When it comes to movies, everyone has their favorites. Some go for the classics, while others chase the latest hits.
Rotten Tomatoes plays a big role in guiding movie fans, offering a list of top-rated films based on critic and user reviews.
With its trusted system, Rotten Tomatoes helps people find the best flicks to watch. Whether it’s an all-time favorite or a popular new release, they have it covered.
Many moviegoers rely on this platform to decide what to see next.
1) The Godfather
“The Godfather” is widely celebrated as an iconic film in American cinema. Released in 1972, it is directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by Mario Puzo.
The movie is set in the world of organized crime and follows the Corleone family, an Italian-American mafia dynasty.
Marlon Brando stars as Vito Corleone, the family patriarch, delivering a performance that earned him an Academy Award.
Al Pacino plays Michael Corleone, Vito’s son, who gradually becomes deeply involved in the family business. The film explores themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal.
James Caan and Robert Duvall also deliver memorable performances as Sonny Corleone and Tom Hagen, respectively. Their roles contribute significantly to the film’s tension and drama.
The characters’ complexity keeps audiences engaged, ensuring the movie remains a classic.
The film’s direction, acting, and screenplay have consistently earned praise from critics and moviegoers alike. With its gripping story and strong performances, it remains a staple on many “best of” lists.
The Godfather’s influence can be seen in countless movies and TV shows that followed, shaping the depiction of mafia life in popular culture. Its memorable quotes and iconic scenes have stood the test of time, continuing to captivate new generations.
2) Parasite
Parasite, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is one of the standout films of recent years. This South Korean movie combines elements of thriller, drama, and dark comedy to tell a story about class struggle and inequality. It gained widespread acclaim and even won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019.
The movie follows the Kim family, who are living in poverty. They find an opportunity to improve their situation by working for the wealthy Park family.
As the two families’ lives intertwine, secrets and conflicts come to the surface, leading to unexpected twists and turns.
The cast includes Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong, and Park So-dam. Their performances have been praised for bringing depth and nuance to the complex characters. Each actor contributes to the movie’s captivating narrative.
Parasite became a cultural phenomenon, and its success at the box office and numerous awards solidified its place in cinema history. The film’s exploration of social themes struck a chord with audiences around the world.
3) Schindler’s List
Schindler’s List is a powerful historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg. It was released on December 15, 1993, and runs for about 3 hours and 15 minutes. The movie is based on true events and tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman during World War II.
Liam Neeson plays Oskar Schindler, giving an unforgettable performance. He is joined by Ben Kingsley, who portrays Itzhak Stern, Schindler’s Jewish accountant and confidant. Ralph Fiennes plays the chilling role of Amon Goeth, a Nazi officer.
The film highlights Schindler’s efforts to save over a thousand Jewish refugees by employing them in his factories. This courageous act is depicted with heart-wrenching scenes and emotional storytelling.
Schindler’s List is known for its stunning black-and-white cinematography. It was highly praised by critics and holds an impressive 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
It explores themes of human cruelty, heroism, and redemption. Its depiction of the Holocaust is both haunting and inspiring. The film leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
Check out the trailer for a glimpse of this incredible movie:
4) The Dark Knight
“The Dark Knight” is a standout movie directed by Christopher Nolan. It was released in 2008 and is part of Nolan’s Batman Trilogy. Many people love this film for its gripping storyline and thrilling action.
The movie stars Christian Bale as Batman. He teams up with allies like Lt. Jim Gordon, played by Gary Oldman, and District Attorney Harvey Dent, played by Aaron Eckhart. Together, they fight crime in Gotham City.
The real show-stealer is Heath Ledger. He plays the Joker, a villain whose performance earned him many awards. Ledger’s portrayal is both terrifying and fascinating.
“The Dark Knight” is praised for its realistic take on comic book characters. The film creates a dark and gritty view of Gotham, filled with tension and excitement. Its combination of intense action and deep themes makes it memorable.
To see more about the movie, watch the trailer below:
This movie is not just popular among fans. Critics appreciate it too, often calling it one of the best superhero films ever. Its blend of action, drama, and standout performances makes it a top-rated choice on Rotten Tomatoes.
5) Pulp Fiction
Pulp Fiction is one of those films that really stands out in the world of cinema. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, it came out in 1994 and quickly made a huge impact.
The movie weaves together four different crime stories set in Los Angeles. Each storyline is unique but interconnected, giving the film a distinct style.
John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Bruce Willis, and Uma Thurman deliver unforgettable performances. Their characters are as iconic as the movie itself, defining an era in film history.
Tarantino’s direction brings a mix of humor and violence, along with a killer soundtrack. The film’s dialogue and non-linear storytelling keep viewers on their toes.
Critics often rank Pulp Fiction as one of Tarantino’s best works. It has become a cult classic, loved by fans worldwide.
Check out a glimpse of the film’s style with its trailer below:
Pulp Fiction also propelled Tarantino to fame, making “Tarantinoesque” a recognized style in filmmaking. This made him a household name among movie lovers.
The film’s influence on modern cinema is undeniable. Its storytelling technique and visuals continue to inspire directors today.
6) The Shawshank Redemption
“The Shawshank Redemption” is a classic drama film released in 1994. It’s based on a novella by Stephen King and directed by Frank Darabont. The movie has captured the hearts of many with its powerful storytelling and incredible performances.
The film stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a banker who is sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary for the murder of his wife and her lover.
Despite his grim situation, Andy maintains hope and eventually forms a deep friendship with Ellis “Red” Redding, played by Morgan Freeman.
The chemistry between Robbins and Freeman is remarkable, drawing audiences into their world. Their friendship is at the heart of the movie, highlighting themes of hope, freedom, and redemption. Freeman’s narration adds a special touch to the film, making it even more engaging.
The film’s cinematography and score add to the emotional depth of the story. Its strong narrative and character development have earned it a spot among the top movies on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film’s ability to inspire and move viewers has been a major factor in its lasting appeal.
Check out a trailer on YouTube to get a glimpse of its brilliance. The compelling storyline and unforgettable performances make “The Shawshank Redemption” a must-watch for movie lovers. Its message about hope and resilience continues to resonate with audiences today.
7) Citizen Kane
Citizen Kane is often hailed as a classic in film history. It was released in 1941 and directed by Orson Welles. Welles also produced and starred in the movie, playing the lead role of Charles Foster Kane. The film’s screenplay was co-written by Welles and Herman J. Mankiewicz.
The story follows the life of a wealthy newspaper magnate, Charles Foster Kane. It explores his personal and professional life, and his eventual fall from grace. The narrative is presented through a series of flashbacks, piecing together Kane’s life through the memories of those who knew him.
The film was groundbreaking for its time, introducing new techniques in cinematography and narrative structure. It features unique camera angles and deep focus shots, which became a hallmark of Welles’ style. These innovations helped to set a new standard in Hollywood filmmaking.
Citizen Kane’s cast includes Joseph Cotten, Dorothy Comingore, and Agnes Moorehead. Their performances, along with Welles’, contribute to the film’s enduring legacy. It remains a favorite among critics and film scholars.
The movie had a huge impact on future filmmakers. Many consider it a turning point in cinema techniques and storytelling. It held the top spot in many lists of the greatest films for decades.
For those curious to see this landmark film, here’s a trailer for Citizen Kane. It gives a glimpse into the compelling story and groundbreaking visuals that made this film a legend.
8) 12 Angry Men
“12 Angry Men” is a classic film that has left a big mark on cinema history. Directed by Sidney Lumet, this 1957 legal drama takes viewers inside a jury room where twelve men must decide the fate of a teenager accused of murder. The tension is palpable as each juror reveals their biases and values.
The film stars Henry Fonda, who delivers a powerful performance as Juror 8, a man who stands alone against the other jurors, urging them to reconsider their quick judgment. Alongside him, Lee J. Cobb plays Juror 3, whose anger and personal issues influence his decision-making.
“12 Angry Men” is celebrated for its sharp dialogue and strong performances. It’s been praised by critics and audiences alike, earning a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, according to the compiled reviews. This story is a deep dive into human nature and justice, all within the confines of a single room.
In addition to the intense drama, the film is noted for its minimalistic set, which adds to the claustrophobic and tense atmosphere. This simplicity helps highlight the actors’ performances, making it a powerful and engaging watch for those who enjoy thought-provoking cinema.
You should definitely check out the trailer to get a sense of the film’s gripping tension:
9) Avengers: Endgame
Avengers: Endgame is a major hit in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Released in 2019, it became a massive success both critically and commercially.
The movie picks up after the events of Avengers: Infinity War, where Thanos wiped out half the universe with a snap.
The film stars a brilliant ensemble cast. Key actors include Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, Chris Evans as Captain America, and Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow.
These heroes, along with others, join forces for one last mission to defeat Thanos and bring back their friends.
Critics praised the movie for its emotional depth and impressive storytelling. It combines thrilling action with moments of humor and heart.
With a runtime of over three hours, it provides a grand conclusion to many beloved characters’ arcs.
Rotten Tomatoes gives Avengers: Endgame high marks, showcasing its popularity with a 94% Tomatometer score.
Audiences around the world were captivated by its epic scale and the resolution of long-running storylines.
The movie features stunning visual effects and intense battle scenes, making it a spectacle to watch. Fans particularly enjoyed seeing different heroes from across the Marvel Universe team up to tackle seemingly impossible odds.
Here’s a trailer to get a glimpse of this cinematic adventure. It’s a fitting conclusion to a decade-long saga that captured the imagination of millions.
10) Forrest Gump
“Forrest Gump” is one of those movies that sticks with you. Released in 1994, it became a classic pretty fast.
Tom Hanks shines as Forrest, a man with a simple outlook on life who ends up in extraordinary situations.
The movie takes viewers through decades of American history. Forrest unintentionally influences major events, from the Vietnam War to a famous meeting with John Lennon.
It’s a mix of comedy, drama, and a bit of romance.
The film also stars Robin Wright as Jenny, Forrest’s lifelong friend. Sally Field plays his loving mother, and Gary Sinise is Lieutenant Dan, Forrest’s army buddy. Their performances add depth to the film’s rich tapestry of characters.
“Forrest Gump” won several Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Tom Hanks. Its memorable quotes and iconic scenes are still celebrated today.
Its music score, featuring hits from multiple decades, adds to the film’s nostalgic feel.
The movie’s charm lies in how it combines history with personal stories. It’s a film that appeals to various emotions, making people laugh and cry.
Despite its simplicity, it carries profound messages about life and destiny.
Check out the trailer here:
Understanding Rotten Tomatoes Scores
Rotten Tomatoes scores provide moviegoers with a quick look at how a film is performing with critics and audiences. These scores are essential for people trying to decide which movies to watch.
How Scores Are Calculated
Rotten Tomatoes uses the Tomatometer to show how well a movie is doing with critics. The score represents the percentage of positive reviews for a film.
A movie with 60% or higher is considered “Fresh,” while below 60% is “Rotten.”
When a movie first releases, its score is calculated after at least five reviews are collected. These reviews come from a pool of approved critics, ensuring the opinions are trustworthy.
The reviews weigh positive versus negative and give a quick idea of a movie’s reception.
Additionally, audience scores are shown using a popcorn bucket icon. This reflects the percentage of users rating the film positively.
Both scores let viewers see if a movie is appreciated by critics and fans alike.
The Importance of Certified Fresh
A movie can earn the Certified Fresh badge if it gets a score of 75% or higher and meets other criteria.
This mark tells viewers that a film is not only positively reviewed, but also widely praised.
To receive this badge, a movie needs a minimum number of reviews, including some from top critics. It’s a badge of honor showing that a film is well-regarded.
Movies with this status often gain attention and higher box office numbers due to increased audience trust.
The visual badge next to the title signals audiences to sit up and take notice, and it’s a great tool for finding quality films.
Impact of Rotten Tomatoes on Movie Success
Rotten Tomatoes scores have a significant impact on films by affecting both box office performance and audience perception. These two factors are crucial in shaping how successful a movie will be.
Influence on Box Office Performance
A high score on Rotten Tomatoes can boost a movie’s box office earnings. Movies with good reviews on the site attract more viewers who trust the ratings.
This is especially true for smaller films without big marketing budgets. When a movie receives a “Certified Fresh” rating, it often experiences increased ticket sales.
Conversely, a low score can deter audiences. If a movie is labeled as “Rotten,” people might decide against spending their money to see it.
This negative impact can be tough for films with great potential that may not have resonated with certain critics.
Table: Rotten Tomatoes Rating Influence
| Rating Type | Expected Impact |
|---|---|
| Certified Fresh | Increased ticket sales |
| Fresh | Positive effect |
| Rotten | Decreased attendance |
Audience Perception
Audience perception is heavily influenced by Rotten Tomatoes scores. Many moviegoers check the site before deciding whether to watch a film.
A high tomatometer score suggests the film is of good quality, while a low score might suggest the opposite.
The site has made audience reviews more accessible, allowing users to share their opinions easily. This user input can shift how people view and talk about certain movies, impacting overall reception.
Critics and user reviews together create a comprehensive picture, influencing public opinion and future box office numbers.
