Critics, tastemakers, rating systems and other similar things have been around for a long time. But it seems as though the idea of scores and ratings are even more prevalent in our culture today more than ever. This brings to mind, for me, how many of us look to these ratings and reviews to guide us as to what movies we should watch. While this can be a valuable tool, is there a certain point where we put too much faith in these things?

DISCLAIMER BEFORE WE MOVE ON: Film critique is an invaluable part of the film world and public rating systems are one of the great tools in allowing everyone to make their voice heard. These things should not be taken for granted or shied away from.

Now that that’s out of the way, the idea I want to bring up today isn’t about the merit of those things, but about who we can allow those things to dictate what we watch even against our own best interest. Take going to the movies, for example. I get it that for many, when they go see a movie, they want to make sure it’s going to be a good one. For many, you may not get out to the movies that often, so if you’re picking one to go see, you look at ratings and reviews to help confirm your choice.

But what about those times you were really excited to watch something? And maybe the reviews or opinions around you told you that the film you’re excited about isn’t worth your time?

Sure, those voices and opinions are entitled to what they say, and maybe you’ll even agree with them when you watch that film. But what if you watch that movie and actually find that you still love it? In fact, you find those opinions to be wrong, from your perspective. And what if this film becomes your new all-time favorite movie? The point is, if you allow those reviews to keep you from seeing that next new favorite movie, would you regret it?

What this comes down to is that no matter what others may say or think, you should watch what you love, no matter what. If there’s something you want to see and the reviews are pretty negative, but you really wanted to see it, still go see it! Form your own view and opinion on the film! There’s many films I love that other people can’t stand and vice versa, but what I’ve learned is that the most important thing is that I watch what I love, no matter what anyone else thinks.

When it comes to reviews and ratings, I think it’s healthier to view those things as the art of people stating their case rather than the voices that dictate what you like. Your voice and opinion matters. What you love shouldn’t be dictated by anyone else but who God made you to be.

Watch what you love. You’ll find treasure others may not see.