Posted by Karma at ppp-209-142-8-211.17.softcom.net on May 13, 2001 at 01:48:42:
I visited the site to recheck the numbers...the median average is 7.9, however they listed the 'weighted average' at 4.8. Intrigued at this, 'weighted average', I clicked on the link, and this is their explanation.
IMDb publishes weighted vote averages rather than raw data averages. Various filters are applied to the raw data in order to eliminate and reduce attempts at 'vote stuffing' by individuals more interested in changing the current rating of a movie than giving their true opinion of it (*).
The exact methods we use will not be disclosed. This should ensure that the policy remains effective. The result is a more accurate vote average.
(*)The trouble with the global village are all the global village idiots. - Paul Ginsparg.
Apparently, due to superpowers they would prefer to keep anonymous, they are able to determine who is actually a valid voter, one who has seen the movie, and not someone merely trying to help or trash Vincent.
I'm suspecting they have a sophisticated data transfer system, able to detect and transmit the scent of buttered popcorn from the users keyboard. If this technology ever got into the wrong hands...God help us all!
Needless to say, I sent a complaint regarding the rating system, don't know if it will help, but until I see the movie I can't vote....unless...I wonder if microwaved Pop Secret would work?!