Since the earliest days of the film industry, Hollywood has released films that have left critics and audiences firmly at odds, from MCU superhero movies to slow-burn dramas. This can happen for a variety of reasons, from split fandoms and poor adaptations of source material to valuing fan service over a good story. The difference of opinion is also far from a secret, and some fans revel in being at odds with the critics, while others love being in the minority.
While some film studios and creators go to great lengths to try and ensure mass-market appeal, others are more niche. Where some film-makers make a play for an Oscar, even if it alienates the wider audience, others shoot for box office success, even if it means drawing the ire of critics. From rotten to fresh, Rotten Tomatoes does a great job of highlighting the differing opinions around movies of varying quality, and gaps in opinion can offer insight into the perspectives of critics versus typical moviegoers — and audience love doesn’t always equate to box office success.