On the Waterfront Tops The Godfather on Rotten Tomatoes Ratings

NEW YORK, NY — Marlon Brando‘s acclaimed performance in Elia Kazan‘s 1954 film On the Waterfront has reached an impressive 99% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing his iconic role in The Godfather, which holds a 97% rating.

This revelation highlights a surprising twist in the world of classic cinema, as On the Waterfront, which tells the story of anti-hero Terry Malloy standing up to a corrupt mob union, boasts an exceptional critical consensus based on 114 reviews. In contrast, The Godfather, widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, is not the highest-rated Brando film on the review aggregator.

On the Waterfront, awarded multiple Oscars, including Best Actor for Brando, remains a defining piece of American cinema and was recognized early on as a classic. Critics laud Brando’s raw and compelling performance, which continues to resonate with audiences today.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, five other films share or exceed the approval rating of On the Waterfront: Parasite, L.A. Confidential, Casablanca, Seven Samurai, and Toy Story 2. Critics regard The Godfather as a cinematic masterpiece despite its slightly lower score and substantial critical acclaim, with 97% of 152 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes rating it positively.

Critics’ opinions on The Godfather vary; some have deemed it too sensationalistic to be categorized as a classic, a notion that hints at the film’s polarizing nature. Francis Ford Coppola, the director, even expressed skepticism about the original novel by Mario Puzo before directing the film.

While many praise the film’s deep exploration of themes like loyalty and power, a small faction of critics suggests it leans too heavily into melodrama without delivering sufficient moral insight. In contrast, On the Waterfront has maintained a favorable reception and fewer detractors, cementing its place among the legends of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

As the cinematic landscape continues to evolve, both On the Waterfront and The Godfather exemplify the power of storytelling, each contributing uniquely to the film industry. The differences in their reception lend insight into the diverse tastes and preferences of filmgoers and critics alike, inviting ongoing discussion about what constitutes a cinematic masterpiece.