Films reviewed fall into one of five categories, depending on strength of recommendation. Modifiers help distinguish quality within a category.
When observing a film's grade, it must be kept in mind that film viewing is a cumulative learning process. A grade for a film represents a moment of time, the viewing of that film on that particular date. Re-viewing, new films seen which alter understanding or appreciation, new interpretations considered--all could later change the initial impression of a film. Therefore, it must be kept in mind that the grades on this site are momentary things, and the mindstate and opinion of the reviewer is not only liable, but likely, to change over time.
Indispensable or Ecstatic Viewing
Recommended or Essential Viewing
Ambivalent or Questionable Viewing
Avoidable Viewing
The rare film that is distinctly irritating or offensive, but not in the good this-is-so-unlikable-it-must-be-seen way.
Modifiers
Plus, i.e. the best one can be inside its respective catagory.
Plain vanilla.
Minus, i.e. not quite there. "There" being anywhere better than here.
