Kevin Smith has proven to have staying power in the world of film-making whether his films reach large audiences or not. However, one of his least-discussed films came about during a period of his career most movie-goers would consider a “slump,” but Tusk itself would suggest that it certainly wasn’t a creative slump. Holding just a 46% Critics Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes -- and an even worse 36% audience score -- Tusk is one of Smith's lower-rated outings.
Regardless, Tusk offers a genuinely fascinating look into the work of a primarily comic director entering an entirely new genre, and it should be viewed as a success as far as creativity goes. While there are a few very jarring elements included in the film, it still holds up far better a decade after its release than it did for audiences in 2014. Becoming something of a cult favorite ten years later, Tusk remains an underappreciated film by a director who appreciates the nuances of film far more than a corner of the general audience gives him credit.
I mentioned this in the thread covering the trailer for his new film, as I really enjoyed Tusk. I am surprised that the RT scores are so low but it is also not a film for everyone.
I thought Tusk was a fun movie. I was surprised after watching it that people don't like it.
I mean, just the entire first conversation in the old guys living room when they meet is worth watching the movie for.
I personally think the whole RT system is awful. Why have a film prejudged by other people? Try watching it yourself and making up your own mind. Remember, you can stop a film if you're not enjoying it.
It doesn't help that some fandoms like to review bomb which only makes matters worse.
RT has got itself stuck with the Rotten/Fresh schtick and it is too easily gamed. IMDb's is more useful as a guide but, if a film sounds interesting, I'll give it a shot and make my own mind up as there may be some redeeming feature that wins me round that might not necessarily work for other people.