The Only Film With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and Zero Negative Reviews

There’s a film out there that’s pulled off something rare—every critic who’s seen it loves it. That movie is ‘Leave No Trace’, a 2018 drama that’s earned a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, holding strong with over 250 reviews. It’s a story about a father and daughter living off the grid, and it’s got a grip on anyone who watches it.

The plot centers on Will, a war veteran, and his teenage daughter, Tom, who’ve carved out a life in the forests near Portland, Oregon. They’re not just camping—they’re hiding, avoiding society’s rules. When authorities find them, they’re forced into a world that feels foreign. The story follows their struggle to adapt and their pull back to the wild, where they feel free. Directed by Debra Granik, the film is based on Peter Rock’s novel ‘My Abandonment’, which draws from a real-life tale, giving it a raw, grounded feel.

Ben Foster plays Will, and it’s the kind of performance that sticks with you. Critics called it the role of his career, full of quiet pain and strength. Thomasin McKenzie, as Tom, matches him step for step, her breakout performance brimming with heart and depth. Together, they make you feel the weight of their bond and the cost of their choices. Granik, who also directed ‘Winter’s Bone’, keeps things simple but powerful, letting the story breathe without forcing emotions.

What makes ‘Leave No Trace’ stand out is its restraint. There’s no big drama or over-the-top moments—just a father and daughter trying to find their place. It’s about family, freedom, and what it means to belong, all told with a gentle touch. The film’s perfect score isn’t just a number; it reflects how it connects with everyone who sees it. It grossed just under $6 million worldwide on a small budget, proving you don’t need flash to make an impact.

Granik’s direction earned her praise for crafting a ‘subtle masterpiece’. Foster, known for intense roles in ‘Hell or High Water’ and ‘The Messenger’, brings a haunted edge to Will. McKenzie, who later starred in ‘Jojo Rabbit’, was only 17 during filming but held her own. Their chemistry carries the movie, making every quiet moment hit hard.

This isn’t the only film to hit 100% on Rotten Tomatoes—classics like ‘Citizen Kane’ and ‘The Godfather’ have been there—but ‘Leave No Trace’ stands out for keeping that score with so many reviews. It’s not loud or showy, but it’s the kind of story that stays with you long after the credits roll. If you’re looking for something real, this is it.