Reviews and Star Ratings on Posters

During my research I have noticed that many posters include reviews and ratings to help promote the films. 

Reviews seem to be more important for certain kinds of movies, and less important for others. Big budget Hollywood movies that already have an existing audience (because they are based on existing source material) and might belong to popular genres, have A-list stars, could be a sequel, or part of a franchise, are less likely to depend on reviews to help sell them. 

Whereas, low budget films that don't necessary have those 'sellable' elements may rely on reviews a lot more to help persuade an audience to see the film.

Reviews consist of words that often make reference to the genre of the film, and are usually limited to a small number of words, using almost always positive language that will entice the audience to go and see the film. Usually the reviews come from publications or media outlets that will appeal to, or be read by, the target audience such as radio shows, newspapers, or social media.

Whilst my film is not typically the type of film that would require or depend upon ratings to appeal to the audience as my production companies are big Hollywood companies, I have noticed that some posters for romantic comedies have included  star ratings and reviews.

Bridesmaids

Sometimes reviews make reference to other movies that have either been commercially successful or critically well received. These films are likely to belong to the same genre so that they will appeal to the audience of the film that is being promoted.

Reviews frequently reference the genre of the movie through specific words like "hilarious", "heartfelt", and "hilarity" - each of these implies this movie is going to be from the romantic comedy genre. Phrases like "must see" convince the audience that they have to see the film. "Chick flick" again references the rom-com genre.