The Impact of Focusing Only on High-Rated Movies: A Critical Analysis

Is it a sign of a refined taste or a critical snob if one only watches movies that receive nearly perfect ratings such as 90-100 on Rotten Tomatoes and 9.0-10.0 on Metacritic? This article explores the potential consequences of such a selective approach to film consumption, including the risk of making oneself extremely bored and limiting the cinematic experience.

What Can Happen When You Only Watch High-Rated Movies?

Consequences on Personal Taste and Critical Insight

One of the key drawbacks of exclusively watching movies with nearly perfect ratings is that it restricts personal taste and critical insight. Movies that receive high scores are often selected based on the opinions of critics and audiences. In doing so, one runs the risk of only seeing what others recommend and not forming their own independent opinions. As a result, they might miss out on films that, although critically acclaimed, might not align with individual preferences.

Personal Preferences vs. Critical Consensus

For example, a highly regarded film like The Godfather might be considered by many as a masterpiece, yet individuals can form their own opinions. If one falls within those ranks who find it merely “boring,” then watching only highly rated films could lead to a sense of frustration or boredom. Therefore, it is important to remember that taste varies, and critically acclaimed movies might not align with individual tastes.

Missed Opportunities and Deprivation

Moreover, by avoiding movies with lower ratings, one deprives themselves of a broader cinematic experience. Highly rated films have already been vetted and are likely to be good, but they may not be everyone's cup of tea. There is always a chance that some of these high-rated films might not satisfy an individual's unique preferences. Additionally, there exist many films that might be considered lower rated but still offer unique and enriching storytelling that one might enjoy.

Beyond Critics: Personal Enjoyment and Discovery

It is important to consider the subjective nature of film enjoyment. Critics and audiences provide valuable insights and perspectives, but ultimately, a film's value lies in its ability to resonate with the individual viewer. For instance, a movie like The Last Jedi, currently with a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, might be considered a letdown by some viewers, while others may hold it in much higher regard. Thus, while high ratings suggest a favorable reception, they do not guarantee personal enjoyment or preference.

Subjectivity in Film Criticism

Film criticism, by nature, is subjective. Critics and audiences provide their perspectives based on personal sensibilities, which can vary widely. The idea of objective film value is often criticized as it disregards the personal experiences and emotions elicited by each movie. Therefore, the act of watching only high-rated films can be seen as a narrow approach to film enjoyment that limits one's appreciation of cinema.

Valuing Individual Taste Over Consensus

While it is valuable to consider the opinions of critics and fellow viewers, it is equally important to trust one's own taste and preferences. Movies that receive lower ratings might offer unique storytelling, performances, or visuals that cater to a different audience. By opening oneself to a wider range of films, one can discover and enjoy a more diverse and fulfilling cinematic experience.

Conclusion: Learning to Appreciate a Diverse Range of Films

While watching only high-rated movies ensures a certain level of quality, it also risks depriving oneself of the full breadth of cinematic experiences. A more balanced approach that includes considering a variety of opinions and exploring films across the spectrum can lead to a richer and more nuanced appreciation of film.

Ultimately, film enjoyment is a deeply personal experience. By diversifying one's viewing habits, one can avoid becoming a critical snob and instead discover and appreciate a wider range of films that resonate with their unique tastes.