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Marvel’s ‘Underdog’ Film Dominates Netflix Despite Critical Panning

Source: 'Underdog' Marvel film tops Netflix chart despite abysmal 10% on Rotten Tomatoes (2025-12-01)

Despite receiving a dismal 10% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and widespread criticism labeling it as “ridiculously bad,” the Marvel film *Madame Web* has unexpectedly become Netflix’s most-watched movie as of December 2025. This surprising success underscores the enduring power of Marvel’s brand, even when the film itself fails to impress critics or audiences. The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), which has revolutionized global cinema with blockbuster hits like *Avengers*, *Thor*, and *Spider-Man*, continues to dominate entertainment charts worldwide. *Madame Web*, starring Dakota Johnson, was released in February 2024 and was initially met with mixed reviews, with many viewers criticizing its plot and execution. However, its popularity on Netflix highlights a broader trend: the franchise’s ability to attract viewers regardless of critical reception, driven by dedicated fan loyalty and the franchise’s expansive universe. In recent years, the entertainment landscape has seen a shift where viewer engagement on streaming platforms often defies traditional critical consensus. The success of *Madame Web* on Netflix exemplifies this phenomenon, as it outperforms many critically acclaimed films in terms of viewership. This trend is reinforced by several recent developments: 1. **Streaming Dominance and Viewer Loyalty:** Netflix’s global reach and personalized recommendation algorithms have made it easier for viewers to discover and binge-watch Marvel content, even if the films are poorly rated critically. The platform’s data shows that Marvel movies consistently rank high in watch time, indicating strong viewer engagement. 2. **Franchise Resilience:** The MCU’s extensive universe, with interconnected storylines and beloved characters, creates a compelling reason for fans to revisit or catch up on films, regardless of reviews. This loyalty is reinforced by Marvel’s strategic release schedule, which often includes multiple films and series simultaneously. 3. **Nostalgia and Brand Power:** Marvel’s brand recognition and nostalgic appeal continue to draw audiences, especially younger viewers and dedicated fans who prioritize franchise loyalty over critical opinion. This is evident in the high viewership numbers for *Madame Web*, despite its poor critical reception. 4. **Impact of Social Media and Word-of-Mouth:** Viral discussions, memes, and fan theories on platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Reddit help sustain interest in Marvel films, even those with negative reviews. The community-driven buzz often outweighs critic consensus in influencing viewer choices. 5. **Changing Audience Expectations:** Modern audiences increasingly value entertainment value and spectacle over narrative coherence or critical acclaim. Marvel’s signature blend of action, humor, and visual effects continues to attract viewers seeking escapism, regardless of reviews. 6. **Market Expansion and Global Audience:** Marvel’s strategic focus on international markets has expanded its global footprint, making its films accessible and popular worldwide. Streaming platforms like Netflix capitalize on this by promoting Marvel content to diverse audiences. 7. **Upcoming Marvel Releases and Anticipation:** The upcoming slate of Marvel films and series, including *Avengers: The Kang Dynasty* and *Secret Wars*, fuels renewed interest in existing Marvel content, boosting viewership of older or less acclaimed films like *Madame Web*. 8. **Critical vs. Commercial Success:** The divergence between critical ratings and commercial or streaming success is increasingly evident. While *Madame Web* flopped with critics, its streaming numbers demonstrate that critical opinion is not always a barrier to popularity. 9. **The Role of Nostalgic Reboots and Spin-offs:** Marvel’s strategy of creating spin-offs and reboots, often with familiar characters, sustains viewer interest and drives streaming numbers, even for films that are considered subpar. 10. **Future Trends in Streaming and Franchise Marketing:** As streaming platforms continue to refine their algorithms and marketing strategies, Marvel’s content is likely to remain a staple, with even poorly received films finding new life on digital platforms. In conclusion, the unexpected success of *Madame Web* on Netflix exemplifies the complex relationship between critical reception and viewer engagement in the digital age. Marvel’s ability to maintain its cultural relevance and franchise loyalty ensures that even films with low ratings can achieve significant streaming success. As the MCU continues to expand with new projects and cross-platform storytelling, it remains a dominant force in global entertainment, shaping viewer habits and industry standards well into 2025 and beyond.

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