Finding reliable movie reviews online has become increasingly important as streaming services and theatrical releases compete for our attention. While simple Google searches can yield countless opinions, having trusted sources for movie reviews can help you make informed decisions about what to watch.
Here are the ten best movie review websites that offer comprehensive, reliable critiques and information about films.
1. Rotten Tomatoes
Remaining the gold standard of review aggregation, Rotten Tomatoes has evolved to become even more comprehensive. The site now features both the traditional Tomatometer (critical consensus) and an Audience Score, providing a balanced view of both professional and viewer opinions. Their "Verified Audience" feature ensures that audience reviews come from confirmed ticket purchasers, adding credibility to user ratings.
2. Letterboxd
The social network for film enthusiasts has grown into one of the most influential movie platforms. Letterboxd combines detailed user reviews, sophisticated list-making features, and a vibrant community of film lovers. The platform's integration with streaming services helps users track where they can watch specific films, while their Pro and Patron subscriptions offer advanced statistics and features for serious film buffs.
3. IMDb
Now an Amazon company, IMDb remains the internet's most comprehensive database for film information. Beyond basic ratings and reviews, IMDb Pro has become an industry standard for professional information about films and TV shows. Their user reviews system, while sometimes polarizing, provides detailed demographic breakdowns and allows users to see rating distributions across different age groups and regions.
4. Metacritic
Known for its weighted averaging system, Metacritic provides more nuanced scoring than simple "fresh or rotten" ratings. Their METASCORE considers the prestige and quality of review sources, offering a sophisticated analysis of critical consensus. The site's clean interface and detailed review excerpts make it easy to understand why critics praised or criticized a film.
5. RogerEbert.com
This website honors the legacy of legendary film critic Roger Ebert while providing fresh perspectives from contemporary critics. The site maintains Ebert's archived reviews while featuring new content from respected film critics. Their "Great Movies" section remains an invaluable resource for cinema classics, while new reviews maintain the thoughtful, accessible style that made Ebert's writing so influential.
6. The A.V. Club
Known for its intelligent, witty criticism, The A.V. Club offers in-depth film reviews that go beyond simple ratings. Their critics provide cultural context and analysis, making their reviews valuable both before and after watching a film. The site's grading system is clear and consistent, while their "Film Club" discussions offer deeper dives into notable releases.
7. IndieWire
Essential for those interested in independent and arthouse cinema, IndieWire combines industry news with thoughtful criticism. Their reviews often highlight films that might be overlooked by mainstream outlets, and their coverage of film festivals helps readers discover emerging talents and trends in cinema.
8. Criterion
While not exclusively a review site, Criterion's editorial content provides some of the most insightful film analysis available online. Their "Current" section offers reviews and essays about both contemporary and classic cinema, written by some of the most knowledgeable film scholars and critics. The site's integration with their streaming service makes it easy to explore discussed films.
9. Empire Online
This British film magazine's website offers a global perspective on cinema, with reviews that balance entertainment value with critical analysis. Their five-star rating system is well-respected, and their coverage includes both major releases and smaller international films. Their long-form reviews and features provide context that helps readers understand a film's place in current cinema.
10. Vulture
New York Magazine's entertainment site has become a major voice in film criticism. Their reviews are known for their cultural awareness and sharp writing, often examining films through both artistic and social lenses. The site's mix of serious criticism and engaging features makes it accessible while maintaining critical depth.
How to Use These Resources
For the most comprehensive understanding of a film's quality:
- Check both Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic for aggregate scores
- Read individual reviews from RogerEbert.com or The A.V. Club for detailed analysis
- Visit Letterboxd for community perspectives and thematic connections
- Use IMDb for technical information and audience demographics
- Consult specialist sites like IndieWire or Criterion for independent and classic films
Remember that film criticism is subjective, and the best approach is often to consult multiple sources while keeping your personal taste in mind.
These websites offer various perspectives that can help you make informed decisions about your movie-watching choices.