The Academy Awards are an annual celebration that honors the cinematic achievements of the previous year, with the Best Picture Oscar being one of the most prestigious honors. This coveted award reflects the overall excellence of a film rather than focusing on singular elements, making it a hallmark of critical acclaim. Traditionally, the recipients of this award are often among the highest-rated films of their respective years.
Indeed, statistics reveal that over 50% of the films that have clinched the Best Picture title boast a commendable 90% or higher approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. As we look ahead to the 2025 Oscars, several contenders are generating excitement, particularly Anora, which is currently leading the pack, followed closely by Conclave. Other titles like Emilia Perez and The Brutalist have sparked conversation for their use of AI technology, facing criticism but still maintaining high ratings. Despite the discourse surrounding them, these films stand out with impressive critical acclaim. However, it is notable that three past Best Picture winners fall below the 60% “Rotten”threshold.
3 Cimarron (1931)
The 1931 Film Holds a 52% on Rotten Tomatoes
Cimarron is a historical epic that chronicles the life journey of Yancey and Sabra Cravat over several decades. The couple moves to Oklahoma in 1889 to participate in the land rush but eventually settles in Osage, where Yancey becomes the proprietor of a local newspaper. Throughout the film, their family grows, yet Yancey frequently departs for various reasons, leaving Sabra to manage their business and family alone. By the conclusion, Sabra emerges as Oklahoma’s first female Congress member during a poignant reunion with her husband shortly before his demise.
At its premiere, Cimarron received critical acclaim despite being released during the Great Depression. With a production budget exceeding $1.5 million from RKO Pictures, the film unfortunately did not recoup its investment as many viewers could not afford to attend. Critics lauded it for its direction and acting, contributing to its eventual Best Picture win.
Nevertheless, modern assessments reveal significant flaws, notably in its portrayal of Indigenous Americans and the clarity of its storyline, particularly regarding Sabra’s enduring commitment to her husband through his repeated absences. Many now describe the film as both nonsensical and racially insensitive, prompting a decline in its reputation over time.
2 The Greatest Show on Earth (1952)
The Movie Also Won the Oscar for Best Story
Another notable contender is The Greatest Show on Earth, which was awarded Best Picture in 1952 but now holds a mere 50% approval rating. The film gives viewers a glimpse into the lives of performers in the Ringling Bros. Circus, focusing on characters like the manager, two trapeze artists, and notably, a clown portrayed by Jimmy Stewart, who also doubles as a doctor with a complicated moral dilemma.
This film was nominated for three Golden Globes, winning all, including Best Motion Picture – Drama. Although some critics deemed the plot weak, audiences appreciated the grand sets and the authentic performances of real circus artists, contributing to its initial success.
With evolving cinematic standards and special effects, The Greatest Show on Earth has faded from popularity. Present-day reviews point out its flimsy narrative, while still recognizing its vibrant visuals and entertaining circus acts. Ultimately, the film’s lack of a compelling storyline makes it hard to justify its Best Picture status in contemporary cinema.
1 The Broadway Melody (1929)
The Musical Was Surprisingly Impressive at the Time of Its Release
Focusing on two sisters, Hank and Queenie, The Broadway Melody depicts their aspirations in the Broadway theater scene alongside their romantic trials. While the film includes several musical sequences, it struggles to win over modern critics, holding the lowest approval rating of any Best Picture winner at just 42% among critics and a dismal 21% from audiences.
This film is notable for being the first sound feature to win Best Picture and one of the early color films, marking a significant milestone in cinematic history. Its technological advancements, however, do not redeem its lackluster script and mediocre performances, as noted by both contemporary audiences and critics.
Despite its historical significance within the musical genre, today’s consensus suggests that The Broadway Melody’s contributions do not overshadow its uninspired plot. Although it holds a unique place in Oscar history, it serves as a reminder of how far the industry has come since its inception.
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