Rotten Tomatoes Disaster? Mel Gibson Movie Dominates Streaming Charts

Michael

3 min read

Post on Sep 01, 2025

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Rotten Tomatoes Disaster? Mel Gibson's "Last Looks" Dominates Streaming Charts Despite Brutal Reviews

Mel Gibson's latest film, "Last Looks," is defying expectations and dominating streaming charts, leaving critics scratching their heads and sparking a conversation about the disconnect between critical reception and audience appeal. The film, currently streaming on several platforms, boasts a dismal 26% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, yet it's consistently ranking among the most-watched movies. Is this a sign of a changing landscape in film criticism, or something else entirely?

This surprising success raises important questions about the influence – or lack thereof – of Rotten Tomatoes scores on streaming viewership. For years, the aggregate review site has been a significant factor in shaping public perception of films, often influencing box office success. However, "Last Looks" seems to be proving that the old rules no longer apply in the streaming era.

The "Last Looks" Phenomenon: A Deeper Dive

"Last Looks," a neo-noir thriller starring Mel Gibson, features a star-studded cast and a plot that, while perhaps not groundbreaking, offers viewers a familiar and engaging narrative. The movie's critical panning largely centers around its perceived clichés, predictable plot twists, and uneven pacing. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes cited a lack of originality and a reliance on tired genre tropes.

However, audience reaction tells a different story. The film's strong performance on streaming platforms suggests that viewers are less concerned with critical consensus and more interested in straightforward entertainment. This might indicate a growing disconnect between the expectations and preferences of critics and the general movie-going public.

Is Rotten Tomatoes Losing Its Power?

The success of "Last Looks" fuels ongoing debates about the relevance of Rotten Tomatoes and other aggregate review sites in the age of streaming. While Rotten Tomatoes remains a significant source of information for many moviegoers, its influence may be waning, particularly amongst audiences who are more readily accessing content directly through streaming services. The algorithm-driven nature of these platforms might be playing a larger role in determining what viewers watch, irrespective of critical reviews.

Beyond the Tomatoes: The Power of Nostalgia and Star Power

Several factors could explain "Last Looks"'s success despite poor reviews. Firstly, Mel Gibson's enduring star power continues to draw in audiences, regardless of critical opinion. His films often attract a dedicated fanbase who are less concerned with critical acclaim. Secondly, the film's genre – neo-noir – taps into a well-established and popular cinematic tradition, offering a comforting familiarity for viewers.

The Future of Film Criticism in the Streaming Age

The "Last Looks" case presents a fascinating study in the evolving relationship between film criticism, audience engagement, and streaming platforms. It raises questions about the future of film criticism in a landscape where algorithmic recommendations and direct-to-consumer releases increasingly shape viewing habits. While Rotten Tomatoes still holds considerable sway, its impact might be increasingly diluted in the age of personalized streaming experiences.

What do you think? Does the success of "Last Looks" signal a changing tide in how we consume and judge films? Share your thoughts in the comments below!