"Also, you might want to read up on statistics and statistical data, because it is almost impossible to survey ""every one"" in any given field of study. That is the idea behind ""representative sample"". ""Representative sample"" has to do with finding a sample of people that best represents the population you are making a generalized statement about. In this case, IMDb is sample their own population and nothing more. ""User"" opinions are not notable to begin with, let alone the fact that they could be concentrated in one area. They don't release their statistics, and the fact that IMDb does not have historical polls, they simply constantly pollwith the newest movie getting great ratings because its new. "