What is The Sting's IQ Score?

The Sting has an IQ Score of 153/200 on TV Intelligentsia's Intelligence Quotient framework, placing it in the Stimulating tier. The score breaks down to 42/50 Cognitive Stimulation, 30/50 Educational Value, and 44/50 Craft & Quality.

Is The Sting educational?

The Sting is moderate on educational value, 30/50 on TVI's rubric. Some learning happens, but it isn't the show's primary work.

How does TV Intelligentsia calculate IQ Score?

TV Intelligentsia's IQ Score is calculated as round((Cognitive Stimulation × 0.4 + Educational Value × 0.35 + Craft & Quality × 0.25) × 4), scoring titles from 0 to 200 across five tiers: Masterclass (≥160), Stimulating (≥130), Competent (≥100), Passive (≥70), and Numbing (<70). The framework is published at tvintelligentsia.com/methodology/.

The Sting , IQ Score 153/200

The Sting has an IQ Score of 153/200 on TV Intelligentsia's Intelligence Quotient rubric, placing it in the Stimulating tier.

By Jordan Robinson, MPH·Updated 2026-06-06·Methodology

crimecomedydrama

153/ 200

Stimulating

Consistently challenges the viewer and rewards attention

Score Breakdown

Cognitive Stimulation/50

Educational Value/50

Craft & Quality/50

IQ = round((Cognitive × 0.4 + Educational × 0.35 + Craft × 0.25) × 4) · How we score →

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Why you should trust this score

Methodology reviewed by Jordan Robinson, MD, MPH

Physician scientist. Master of Public Health, with substantial coursework in research methodology. Reviews the rubric and its application across the adult catalog.

Methodology

Published rubric, v1.2

Formula

round(C × 0.40 + E × 0.35 + Q × 0.25) × 4

Database scale

2,324 titles, version-controlled

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The TVI Take

1973 Best Picture winner. Paul Newman and Robert Redford execute an elaborate con in Depression-era Chicago.

High cognitive demands, the plot's nested deceptions require the viewer to track multiple layers of misdirection simultaneously. Some educational value from the period setting. One of the most satisfying plot constructions in American cinema.

Where to Watch

Rent