In the world of cinema, critical acclaim can make or break a film's success. Two of the most influential platforms for movie reviews and certification are Rotten Tomatoes and The New York Times. But how exactly does a movie become certified on these platforms? Let's dive into the intricate process and criteria that determine a film's critical status.
Rotten Tomatoes Certification: The Tomatometer Test
Rotten Tomatoes, a popular review aggregator website, has become a go-to source for moviegoers seeking critical consensus. Their certification process, known as the "Certified Fresh" rating, is based on the famous Tomatometer score.
The Tomatometer Explained
The Tomatometer score is calculated as follows:
- Review Collection: Rotten Tomatoes gathers reviews from approved critics and publications.
- Binary Classification: Each review is classified as either "Fresh" (positive) or "Rotten" (negative).
- Percentage Calculation: The percentage of positive reviews determines the Tomatometer score.
Criteria for "Certified Fresh" Status
For a movie to be "Certified Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes, it must meet the following criteria:
| Criterion | Requirement |
| Tomatometer Score | At least 75% |
| Review Count (wide-release films) | At least 80 reviews |
| Review Count (limited-release films) | At least 40 reviews |
| "Top Critics" Reviews | At least 5 |
It's important to note that maintaining the "Certified Fresh" status requires consistent positive reviews. If the Tomatometer score drops below 70%, the movie loses its certification.
The New York Times: A Different Approach to Certification
Unlike Rotten Tomatoes, The New York Times doesn't have a formal certification process. However, a positive review from their critics can be considered a form of certification in the film industry.
NYT Critics' Picks
The New York Times designates certain films as "Critics' Picks," which is the closest equivalent to certification. Here's how it works:
- Expert Review: A film is reviewed by one of the NYT's expert critics.
- Thorough Analysis: The critic provides an in-depth analysis of the film's artistic merits, cultural significance, and overall quality.
- Critics' Pick Designation: If the critic deems the film exceptional, it may be labeled as a "Critics' Pick."
While not as quantifiable as the Rotten Tomatoes system, an NYT Critics' Pick is highly respected in the industry and can significantly boost a film's reputation.
The Impact of Certification on a Movie's Success
Certification from Rotten Tomatoes or recognition from The New York Times can have a substantial impact on a film's performance:
- Box Office Boost: Films with high Tomatometer scores or NYT Critics' Pick status often see increased ticket sales.
- Awards Season Buzz: Certification can generate buzz during awards season, potentially leading to nominations and wins.
- Marketing Power: Studios often prominently feature Rotten Tomatoes scores or NYT quotes in their marketing materials.
"A high Tomatometer score or an NYT Critics' Pick can be the difference between a film's success and obscurity," says film industry analyst Sarah Johnson.
Case Study: "Parasite" (2019)
Let's examine how certification played a role in the success of Bong Joon-ho's "Parasite":
- Rotten Tomatoes: Certified Fresh with a 98% Tomatometer score (based on 451 reviews)
- NYT Review: Designated as a Critics' Pick with a glowing review by A.O. Scott
- Result: Won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and grossed over $258 million worldwide
The Debate: Certification vs. Artistic Merit
While certification from Rotten Tomatoes and recognition from The New York Times carry significant weight, it's crucial to remember that they are not the sole indicators of a film's quality. Many argue that over-reliance on these metrics can overshadow the nuanced appreciation of cinema.
Critics' Perspective: "Certification systems, while useful, shouldn't replace individual critical thinking and personal taste in evaluating films," notes film critic Emily Yoshida.
Conclusion
Understanding how movies become certified on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and recognized by The New York Times provides valuable insight into the film industry's critical landscape. While these certifications can significantly influence a movie's reception and success, they should be considered alongside personal judgment and diverse critical voices.
As moviegoers, we can use these certifications as helpful guides while still forming our own opinions. After all, the magic of cinema lies in its ability to resonate differently with each viewer, certified or not.
For more information on the history and evolution of film criticism, check out this comprehensive article from the American Film Institute.