How the Tomatometer Works
The Tomatometer is Rotten Tomatoes' critic score. When a critic publishes a review, a Rotten Tomatoes editor reads it and assigns it either a fresh or rotten rating based on whether the review was positive or negative. The percentage shown is simply the number of fresh reviews divided by the total number of reviews, multiplied by 100. For example, if 80 out of 100 critics gave positive reviews, the Tomatometer score would be 80 percent.
Understanding the Audience Score
The Audience Score represents what regular viewers think about a movie or show. Users on Rotten Tomatoes rate movies on a scale, typically from 1 to 10 stars. The site then calculates the percentage of users who gave favorable ratings (usually 6 stars or higher). This gives a different perspective from professional critics and allows audiences to voice their own opinions.
Score Thresholds and Categories
Rotten Tomatoes uses percentage ranges to categorize quality. A score of 60 percent or higher on the Tomatometer is considered fresh, while below 60 percent is rotten. For individual reviews, critics' scores are interpreted based on their original rating system, whether that is a letter grade, number of stars, or written opinion. The platform tries to fairly represent each critic's original judgment.
Certified Fresh Status
Certified Fresh is a special distinction given to movies and shows that meet specific criteria. Typically, a film needs a Tomatometer score of at least 75 percent with a minimum number of reviews from top critics, plus a strong audience score. For TV shows, the requirements may differ slightly. This badge helps viewers quickly identify critically acclaimed and audience-approved content.
Why Two Scores Matter
Having both a critic score and audience score is useful because critics and regular viewers sometimes have different opinions. A movie might receive a high Tomatometer score from professional reviewers but a lower audience score from general viewers, or vice versa. This allows readers to see both professional and public perspectives before deciding whether to watch something. 
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