Is the Internet Movie Database faking those huge numbers of voters?!
Question: For example, one film page at IMDb showed it as having 180,000 votes. Is this for real? I'm trying to decide how much weight to give IMDb now as opposed to the ratings at Rotten Tomatoes, which can differ significantly. I use them both now to decide which films likely stink and are to be avoided, and which are probably worth watching.
Answers: For example, one film page at IMDb showed it as having 180,000 votes. Is this for real? I'm trying to decide how much weight to give IMDb now as opposed to the ratings at Rotten Tomatoes, which can differ significantly. I use them both now to decide which films likely stink and are to be avoided, and which are probably worth watching.
Having been a member for almost 4 years and occasionally downloading and saving their Top 250-list I can say that the number of votes are consistent throughout the years. That being said, the people who vote are not necessarily "serious" voters, often 10's and 1's are overrepresented. This is less an issue on Rotten Tomatoes where the votes are made by official contributors. But then again having only the option of "Fresh" or "Rotten" does seem a bit limited for expressing something as complex as a feeling about a movie. I generally use both to determine if I want to see a movie. Btw. The Top 250 of IMDb is determined by their Top Voters (qualifications unknown) and is usually a better representation of the quality of movie.
I'm always surprised at how LOW some amazing movies come out at IMDB. If I film gets a 6 on IMDB it's a must-see.
You have to remember that the voting base on imdb is world wide. So that explains the huge numbers on really popular films. I do admit that sometimes the numbers seem grossly exaggerated, but I hardly ever vote on a movie. It just seems pointless to me.
I don't let the number of voters effect my decision on the movie either. Because some voters are idiots. I choose the picture based on story, actors, directors, subject.
That's all.