Critics Agree: These are the Worst (and Best) Movies From Big Franchises
Every film franchise has to start with an initial success, because box office flops aren't going to spawn any sequels. Of course, individual franchises have varying track records when it comes to their box office and critical success.
We've scoured the ratings on Rotten Tomatoes to bring you the consensus picks for the best and worst films of the biggest movie franchises. In some cases, critics and audiences disagreed - but in any event, this should serve as a primer in which movies to watch and which ones to skip.
Star Wars: Best – Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
With both critics and audiences awarding it an outstanding 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, The Empire Strikes Back remains the gold standard for the Star Wars saga. Rather than simply repeating the formula of the original film, director Irvin Kershner expanded the universe with richer characters, darker storytelling, and unforgettable new locations like the icy world of Hoth and the swamp planet Dagobah.
The film also delivered some of cinema's most iconic moments, including the shocking revelation about Darth Vader's true identity. Its blend of emotional stakes, groundbreaking visual effects, and memorable performances has helped it endure for decades, making it not only the franchise's highest-rated entry but one of the most celebrated science fiction films ever made.
Star Wars: Worst – Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
While The Rise of Skywalker earned the franchise's lowest critics' score at 51%, audience opinions were far more favorable, highlighting just how divided fans remain over the sequel trilogy. Released as the conclusion to the Skywalker saga, the film attempted to tie together decades of storytelling while introducing new twists and delivering large-scale action sequences.
Some viewers appreciated its fast pace, nostalgic callbacks, and emotional farewells to familiar characters. Others felt the story rushed through major plot developments and relied too heavily on fan service instead of allowing its ideas to develop naturally. Whether viewed as an exciting finale or a missed opportunity, it remains one of the most hotly debated chapters in Star Wars history.
MCU: Best – Black Panther (2018)
Critics crowned Black Panther the Marvel Cinematic Universe's highest-rated film with an exceptional 96%, while audiences also embraced it as one of the franchise's strongest entries. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film introduced moviegoers to Wakanda, a technologically advanced nation hidden from the rest of the world, and explored themes of identity, responsibility, and global inequality.
Chadwick Boseman's commanding performance as T'Challa anchored the story, while Michael B. Jordan's Killmonger became one of Marvel's most compelling villains thanks to his complex motivations. Combining spectacular action with meaningful social commentary, Black Panther became both a critical triumph and a cultural milestone that extended far beyond the superhero genre.
MCU: Worst – Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
Although audiences responded more positively than critics, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania received the MCU's lowest critics' score at 46%. The third Ant-Man adventure shifted away from the lighthearted heist style of its predecessors, instead plunging Scott Lang and his family into the bizarre Quantum Realm for a much larger-scale science fiction adventure.
The film introduced Jonathan Majors as Kang the Conqueror, a villain intended to play a major role in Marvel's future plans. While many praised the visual ambition and imaginative world-building, others criticized the heavy reliance on digital effects and felt the story lacked the charm and grounded humor that made the earlier Ant-Man films so appealing.
James Bond: Best – Goldfinger (1964)
With an impressive 99% critics' score and an equally strong audience reception, Goldfinger is widely regarded as the definitive James Bond adventure. Sean Connery's third outing as 007 established many of the series' signature elements, from elaborate gadgets and memorable villains to globe-trotting espionage and unforgettable one-liners.
Auric Goldfinger remains one of Bond's greatest adversaries, while Oddjob's razor-edged bowler hat has become one of the franchise's most recognizable weapons. The film's confident blend of suspense, action, and humor created a blueprint that influenced countless spy movies, ensuring Goldfinger remains one of the most iconic entries in one of cinema's longest-running franchises.
James Bond: Worst – A View to a Kill (1985)
Both critics and audiences ranked A View to a Kill as the weakest official James Bond film, giving it matching Rotten Tomatoes scores of 36%. Roger Moore made his final appearance as 007 at age 57, and many viewers felt the veteran actor no longer looked convincing performing the physically demanding action sequences expected of the character.
That said, the film still offers several memorable highlights. Christopher Walken brings plenty of energy to the role of the ruthless Max Zorin, Grace Jones delivers an unforgettable supporting performance, and the title song by Duran Duran became one of the franchise's biggest musical hits. Even if it falls short overall, it remains an entertaining curiosity for Bond fans.
DC Universe: Best – Wonder Woman (2017)
Wonder Woman earned the highest critics' score in the DC Extended Universe with an impressive 93%, while audiences gave equal praise to Zack Snyder's Justice League. Directed by Patty Jenkins, the film introduced Gal Gadot's Diana Prince in her first solo adventure, blending mythological fantasy with the harsh realities of World War I in a story that balanced action with genuine optimism.
The film stood out thanks to its heartfelt character development and memorable performances, particularly Gadot's charismatic portrayal of Diana and Chris Pine's charming turn as Steve Trevor. Its exhilarating No Man's Land sequence quickly became one of the franchise's defining moments, proving that superhero blockbusters could deliver emotional depth alongside spectacular action.
DC Universe: Worst – Suicide Squad (2016)
Despite assembling a roster of famous DC villains, Suicide Squad received the lowest critics' score in the franchise at just 26%, with audiences also ranking it as the weakest DCEU film. The premise—forcing imprisoned supervillains to undertake dangerous government missions in exchange for reduced sentences—offered plenty of potential for a wildly entertaining comic book adventure.
Many viewers praised Margot Robbie's breakout performance as Harley Quinn, whose popularity continued to grow in later DC projects. However, the film was frequently criticized for its uneven pacing, confusing editing, and underdeveloped story. Even so, its colorful visual style, energetic soundtrack, and memorable characters helped it maintain a loyal fan following despite its mixed reception.
The Fast and the Furious: Best – Furious 7 (2015)
Furious 7 posted the highest critics' score in the franchise with 82%, while audiences slightly favored Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. Directed by James Wan, the seventh installment pushed the series' trademark action to new heights, featuring gravity-defying stunts, globe-spanning set pieces, and explosive confrontations with Jason Statham's relentless villain, Deckard Shaw.
Beyond the spectacle, the film carried unexpected emotional weight following the death of franchise star Paul Walker during production. Through careful visual effects and the help of Walker's brothers, the filmmakers completed his remaining scenes before closing with the touching tribute set to "See You Again." That heartfelt farewell gave Furious 7 an emotional resonance that set it apart from many other action blockbusters.
The Fast and the Furious: Worst – Fast & Furious (2009)
Critics ranked Fast & Furious as the franchise's weakest entry, awarding it a 29% score, while audiences placed 2 Fast 2 Furious at the bottom. Serving as the fourth installment, the film reunited Vin Diesel and Paul Walker for the first time since the original movie, bringing Dominic Toretto and Brian O'Conner back together for a revenge-driven story.
The reunion of the franchise's original stars was widely welcomed, but many reviewers felt the movie lacked the creativity and larger-than-life action that would later redefine the series. Still, it played an important role in steering the franchise back toward its core cast, laying the groundwork for the increasingly ambitious films that followed.
Rocky: Best – Creed (2015)
With a stellar 95% critics' score, Creed revitalized the Rocky franchise by introducing Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, while bringing Sylvester Stallone's iconic boxer into a powerful new mentoring role. Director Ryan Coogler honored the series' legacy while giving it fresh energy through emotionally driven storytelling and dynamic boxing sequences.
Michael B. Jordan delivered a breakout performance as Adonis, portraying a determined young fighter seeking to forge his own identity rather than simply live in his father's shadow. Stallone earned widespread acclaim for his moving performance as an aging Rocky Balboa, helping the film become one of the most successful and heartfelt legacy sequels ever produced.
Rocky: Worst – Rocky V (1990)
Both critics and audiences agreed that Rocky V sits at the bottom of the franchise, with matching Rotten Tomatoes scores hovering just above 30%. After the extravagant spectacle of Rocky IV, the series returned Rocky to his working-class roots as financial troubles force him to retire and mentor an ambitious young boxer named Tommy Gunn.
Although the premise had potential, many felt the film spent too little time in the boxing ring and too much on familiar family conflicts. The climactic street fight also divided audiences who expected a more traditional finale. Despite its reputation, Rocky V remained an important chapter by bringing the character back to Philadelphia before later sequels successfully reinvented the series.
The Lord of the Rings: Best – The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
Critics gave The Two Towers the highest score in the franchise at 95%, while audiences rated it alongside The Fellowship of the Ring as the series' best. The second chapter of Peter Jackson's epic adaptation expands the scope of Middle-earth, splitting the Fellowship into separate journeys while raising the stakes as the forces of Sauron grow stronger.
The film is perhaps best remembered for the Battle of Helm's Deep, a groundbreaking action sequence that remains one of fantasy cinema's greatest achievements. It also introduced Gollum as a fully realized digital character, with Andy Serkis delivering a landmark performance through motion-capture technology. The blend of spectacle, emotion, and character development helped cement the trilogy's legendary reputation.
The Lord of the Rings: Worst – The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)
Although it still earned respectable audience support, The Battle of the Five Armies received the lowest critics' score among the Middle-earth films at 59%. Serving as the conclusion to The Hobbit trilogy, the film focuses on the aftermath of Smaug's attack and the massive conflict that erupts as several armies converge on Erebor.
The movie delivers impressive visual effects and large-scale battles, but many critics felt the emphasis on nonstop action came at the expense of the character-driven storytelling that defined the original Lord of the Rings trilogy. Even so, it provides an emotional farewell to Bilbo's adventure while connecting the events of The Hobbit directly to the beginning of The Fellowship of the Ring.
Alien: Best – Aliens (1986)
James Cameron's Aliens topped the franchise with a 94% critics' score, while audiences rated it alongside Ridley Scott's original Alien as the series' finest achievement. Rather than simply repeating the slow-burn horror of the first film, Cameron transformed the concept into an intense military action thriller without losing the terrifying presence of the Xenomorphs.
Sigourney Weaver expanded Ellen Ripley into one of cinema's greatest action heroes, earning an Academy Award nomination for her performance. The film expertly balances relentless suspense, memorable supporting characters, and explosive action while exploring themes of survival, motherhood, and sacrifice. Decades later, Aliens remains one of the rare sequels considered every bit as influential as the original.
Alien: Worst – Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
Both critics and audiences agreed that Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem represents the low point of the franchise, awarding it matching Rotten Tomatoes scores of just 12%. The crossover follows an outbreak of Xenomorphs in a small Colorado town, forcing humans into the middle of a brutal battle between two iconic extraterrestrial species.
Despite its promising premise, the film drew criticism for its thin story, underdeveloped characters, and extremely dark cinematography that often made the action difficult to follow. While fans enjoyed seeing classic creatures face off once again, many felt the movie relied too heavily on graphic violence instead of building the atmosphere and suspense that made the Alien series so memorable.
Jurassic Park: Best – Jurassic Park (1993)
With matching 91% scores from both critics and audiences, Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park remains the undisputed champion of its franchise. Based on Michael Crichton's bestselling novel, the film imagines a theme park where cloned dinosaurs escape containment, blending scientific speculation with thrilling adventure in a way that captivated audiences around the world.
Its revolutionary combination of practical effects and groundbreaking computer-generated imagery permanently changed visual effects in Hollywood. Beyond the spectacle, memorable performances from Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, and Richard Attenborough gave the story real emotional weight. More than three decades later, the film continues to be regarded as one of the greatest blockbuster adventures ever made.
Jurassic Park: Worst – Jurassic World Dominion (2022)
Critics gave Jurassic World Dominion the lowest score in the franchise at 29%, although audiences responded much more warmly. Marketed as the epic conclusion to the Jurassic World trilogy, the film united the original cast with the newer generation of characters for a globe-spanning adventure set in a world where dinosaurs now live alongside humans.
Many viewers enjoyed seeing Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum reunite, but reviewers argued that the story struggled to balance its large ensemble and numerous plotlines. Despite the mixed reception, Dominion delivered plenty of dinosaur action and served as a nostalgic sendoff that celebrated the legacy of one of cinema's most influential science fiction franchises.
Planet of the Apes: Best – War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
War for the Planet of the Apes earned the highest critics' score in the franchise with an outstanding 94%, while audiences also ranked it among the series' finest. Directed by Matt Reeves, the film concludes the reboot trilogy with an emotional story centered on Caesar as he struggles to protect his people while confronting hatred, revenge, and the cost of leadership.
Andy Serkis once again delivered a remarkable motion-capture performance, bringing extraordinary depth and humanity to Caesar. Rather than relying solely on action, the film emphasizes character and moral conflict, creating a thoughtful conclusion that explores compassion and sacrifice. Its emotional storytelling and stunning visual effects helped elevate it well beyond a typical science fiction blockbuster.
Planet of the Apes: Worst – Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
Critics ranked Battle for the Planet of the Apes as the weakest installment in the original series, while audiences gave that distinction to Tim Burton's 2001 remake. Set years after civilization has collapsed, the fifth original film follows Caesar as he attempts to build a peaceful society where humans and apes can coexist despite lingering distrust on both sides.
Made on a noticeably smaller budget than its predecessors, the film lacks the scale and intensity that defined earlier entries. Even so, its themes of reconciliation, prejudice, and breaking cycles of violence remain surprisingly thoughtful. While it may not reach the heights of the franchise's best films, it provides a hopeful conclusion to the original saga.
Indiana Jones: Best – Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
With a 93% critics' score and an even stronger 96% audience rating, Raiders of the Lost Ark stands as the definitive Indiana Jones adventure. Directed by Steven Spielberg and created by George Lucas, the film introduced Harrison Ford's charismatic archaeologist as he races Nazi forces to recover the legendary Ark of the Covenant before its immense power can be exploited.
Blending swashbuckling adventure, mystery, humor, and unforgettable action sequences, Raiders became an instant classic. From the famous opening temple escape to the thrilling truck chase, the film is packed with iconic moments that have inspired generations of filmmakers. More than four decades later, it remains one of the greatest action-adventure movies ever produced.
Indiana Jones: Worst – Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)
Critics gave Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny the lowest score in the franchise, though it still earned a respectable 70%, illustrating just how consistently well received the series has been overall. Harrison Ford returned for one final adventure as the legendary archaeologist, this time pursuing a mysterious artifact said to possess the power to alter history.
Many praised Ford's committed performance and appreciated the opportunity to give the beloved character a proper farewell. However, some reviewers felt the film leaned too heavily on nostalgia and lacked the freshness and excitement that defined the earlier installments. Even so, it offers an emotional conclusion to one of cinema's most enduring adventure heroes.
Die Hard: Best – Die Hard (1988)
Both critics and audiences awarded Die Hard an exceptional 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its reputation as the franchise's finest entry. Bruce Willis stars as New York police officer John McClane, who finds himself battling a group of terrorists after they seize control of a Los Angeles skyscraper during a company Christmas party.
What set the film apart was its grounded approach to action. McClane is resourceful but vulnerable, taking punishment throughout the story rather than effortlessly defeating every obstacle. Alan Rickman's sophisticated performance as Hans Gruber also became the benchmark for action movie villains. Together, the cast, sharp dialogue, and expertly crafted suspense transformed Die Hard into an enduring action classic.
Die Hard: Worst – A Good Day to Die Hard (2013)
Both critics and audiences agreed that A Good Day to Die Hard is the weakest chapter in the series, giving it Rotten Tomatoes scores of 15% and 40%, respectively. The fifth installment sends John McClane to Russia, where he unexpectedly teams up with his estranged son, Jack, after discovering he's involved in a dangerous covert operation.
Although the father-son partnership offered an interesting premise, many viewers felt the film sacrificed the tense, confined storytelling that made the original movies so memorable. Instead, it focused on large-scale explosions and relentless action while giving little attention to character development. As a result, it failed to capture the wit and charm that had long defined the franchise.
Star Trek: Best – Star Trek (2009)
J.J. Abrams' Star Trek received the franchise's highest Rotten Tomatoes scores from both critics and audiences, earning 94% and 91%, respectively. Rather than continuing the long-running timeline directly, the film cleverly created an alternate reality that allowed classic characters to be reintroduced while preserving the events of the original series.
Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto stepped into the iconic roles of James T. Kirk and Spock, capturing the spirit of the characters while making them their own. Packed with energetic action, humor, and emotional moments, the film successfully appealed to longtime fans and newcomers alike, revitalizing Star Trek for a new generation without abandoning the optimistic vision that made the franchise famous.
Star Trek: Worst – Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
Critics and audiences were in rare agreement, ranking Star Trek V: The Final Frontier as the weakest film in the series with scores of 23% and 24%. Directed by William Shatner, the story follows the crew of the Enterprise on an unusual mission after Spock's half-brother, Sybok, hijacks the ship in search of the mythical planet believed to be home to God.
The ambitious premise promised philosophical questions rarely explored in blockbuster science fiction, but many felt the execution fell short because of uneven pacing, inconsistent special effects, and a limited budget. Even so, the movie features memorable interactions among Kirk, Spock, and McCoy, reminding viewers why the trio remains the emotional heart of the franchise.
Mad Max: Best – Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
With a remarkable 97% critics' score, Mad Max: Fury Road stands as the most acclaimed film in George Miller's post-apocalyptic saga. Decades after the previous installment, the franchise returned with Tom Hardy taking over as Max Rockatansky alongside Charlize Theron's unforgettable Furiosa, creating a relentless chase across a desolate wasteland.
Praised for its practical stunts, breathtaking vehicle action, and minimal reliance on computer-generated effects, the film delivered spectacle while maintaining a surprisingly emotional story. It also earned widespread awards recognition, winning six Academy Awards and redefining what modern action cinema could achieve. Its combination of visual storytelling, inventive world-building, and nonstop momentum makes it one of the greatest action films of the 21st century.
Mad Max: Worst – Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985)
Although Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome is generally well regarded compared to many franchise low points, it still received the lowest Rotten Tomatoes scores in the series from both critics and audiences. The third film follows Max into the desert city of Bartertown, where he becomes entangled in a power struggle involving the formidable ruler Aunty Entity, played by Tina Turner.
The movie expands the mythology of the Mad Max universe by introducing new societies and cultures that emerged after civilization collapsed. While some fans felt it lacked the raw intensity of The Road Warrior, others appreciated its larger scope and memorable set pieces, including the famous gladiatorial "Thunderdome" sequence that became a lasting part of pop culture.
Harry Potter: Best – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011)
Both critics and audiences agreed that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 represents the high point of the Wizarding World, earning Rotten Tomatoes scores of 96% and 89%. The final chapter brings Harry's long battle against Lord Voldemort to its dramatic conclusion as the fate of Hogwarts and the entire magical world hangs in the balance.
The film balances spectacular action with emotional payoffs built over eight movies, giving meaningful conclusions to beloved characters and long-running storylines. Memorable performances from Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and Ralph Fiennes helped make the finale a satisfying sendoff. More than a decade later, it remains one of the most celebrated conclusions to a major film franchise.
Harry Potter: Worst – Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald received the lowest Rotten Tomatoes scores in the Wizarding World, earning 36% from critics and 53% from audiences. The sequel continues Newt Scamander's adventures while shifting much of its attention toward the growing conflict between Albus Dumbledore and the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald.
Despite its visually stunning magical settings and strong cast, many reviewers felt the film became weighed down by an overly complex plot and an abundance of new characters and subplots. Even so, it expanded the history of J.K. Rowling's magical universe by exploring events that shaped several key figures decades before the original Harry Potter series, offering intriguing lore despite its uneven execution.
Dan Gray
