Is there a 100% rated movie?

The Myth of the Perfect Movie: Chasing the Elusive 100%

In the world of film, the pursuit of perfection is a constant, a driving force behind every meticulously crafted shot, every carefully chosen line of dialogue, and every painstakingly composed score. But is absolute cinematic perfection – a movie universally loved and admired without a single dissenting voice – truly attainable? The short answer, based on the evidence, seems to be a resounding no.

The siren song of a 100% rating on review aggregators like Rotten Tomatoes holds an undeniable allure for filmmakers, studios, and film enthusiasts alike. It signifies not just excellence, but a near-impossible consensus, a universal embrace by critics. Yet, achieving and maintaining this coveted score proves to be a fleeting fantasy.

Consider the case of Greta Gerwig’s coming-of-age masterpiece, Lady Bird. For a considerable period, the film basked in the glory of a perfect 100%. Its poignant storytelling, sharp wit, and authentic portrayal of adolescence resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. However, this reign was ultimately short-lived. A single dissenting review, regardless of its individual merit, shattered the illusion, reminding us that taste, by its very nature, is subjective.

Even cinematic behemoths, films considered pillars of the art form, aren’t immune. Citizen Kane, Orson Welles’ groundbreaking exploration of power and regret, long held its own 100% rating, a testament to its innovative techniques and enduring impact. But even this titan eventually succumbed to the shifting sands of time. Historical re-evaluation, evolving perspectives on representation, and the simple fact that even classics can have flaws scrutinized under the lens of contemporary sensibilities, led to its eventual slip from perfection.

The truth is that critical acclaim, while valuable and often insightful, is inherently subjective. What one person finds brilliant, another might find underwhelming. Personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual preferences all play a role in shaping our perception of a film.

Therefore, the idea of a 100% rated movie becomes a myth. It’s a beautiful, perhaps even useful, aspiration that drives filmmakers to push boundaries and strive for excellence. But it’s also a reminder that art, at its core, is about engaging with individual perspectives, and that true appreciation often lies not in achieving unanimous praise, but in sparking meaningful conversations and provoking thought.

Instead of chasing the elusive 100%, perhaps we should celebrate the diversity of opinions and the richness of artistic expression that allows for films to resonate with different people in different ways. After all, the real magic of cinema lies not in achieving a perfect score, but in the power to move, inspire, and challenge us, one viewer at a time.