Netflix's latest action blockbuster Apex, starring Charlize Theron and Taron Egerton, has become the target of a review-bombing campaign on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite debuting at #1 in over 50 countries, the film's audience score has plummeted to a rotten 56% on the Popcornmeter, with fans taking to social media to voice their displeasure.
The film, which hit the streaming service last Friday, pairs two of Hollywood's biggest action stars. Theron, an Oscar winner for Monster and star of hits like The Old Guard and Atomic Blonde, teams up with Egerton, who rose to fame in the Kingsman franchise and recently starred in Netflix's massive hit Carry-On. Together, they aim to dethrone War Machine as Netflix's biggest movie of 2026.
While critics have largely praised the film, audiences are pushing back—particularly over the ending, where Theron's character Sasha defeats Egerton's Ben. Many fans seem upset that Ben loses, but the backlash is puzzling given that Ben is portrayed as a murderous, cannibalistic psychopath with no redeeming qualities. Sasha is clearly the hero from the start, making the fan outrage seem misplaced.
For those unfamiliar, Apex follows Sasha, a woman who embarks on a climbing trip with her partner Tommy (Eric Bana). After Tommy's tragic death, Sasha travels to his native Australia to find peace in the wilderness. There, she meets Ben, who initially appears to be a friendly tour guide but soon reveals himself as a predator hunting her through unfamiliar terrain.
The review-bombing trend is nothing new for Netflix, but it highlights the disconnect between critical reception and audience sentiment. While some fans may be reacting to the film's darker themes, others seem to be driven by a desire to see their favorite star win—even when the character doesn't deserve it.
If you're looking for more streaming recommendations, check out our guide to 3 Netflix shows you can't miss this weekend. And for more on Theron's career, read about how her failed 'Showgirls' audition saved her career.
Despite the backlash, Apex remains a must-watch for action fans. The film's stunning Australian landscapes and intense cat-and-mouse chase sequences make it a thrilling ride. Whether you side with the critics or the fans, there's no denying that Theron and Egerton deliver powerhouse performances.
Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more updates on Apex and future projects from these two stars.
