Interpreting Rotten Tomatoes Ratings

In my experience using Rotten Tomatoes.com, I've found it to be a fairly useful tool in determining whether a movie is worth seeing or not. As opposed to newspaper reviews or random internet sites, RT.com balances critics and normal folk, and allows you to get a full picture of the review spectrum.

The RT.com "Tomatometer" measures reviews on the site. Anything above 60% is "FRESH" and anything below 60% is "ROTTEN".

The shorthand that I've developed is as follows:

HIGH CRITIC/LOW VIEWERS: The movie is a "film", and likely appeals mostly to critics and critic-types. Most likely not fun, usually heavy subject matter. This category produces the most Oscar contenders, though, so it might be a quality film.

LOW CRITIC/HIGH VIEWER: The movie is a fun one, and doesn't appeal to anyone who wants a heavy or "important" movie. These movies are the ones to rent when you don't want to think too much and just want to have a good time.

HIGH CRITIC/HIGH VIEWER: Perfect balance. Appeals to everyone. A must-see.

LOW CRITIC/LOW VIEWER: Pass.