I don't see the reviews for media, as I am not fond of them at all, hence will keep that portion aside from consideration. Now coming to products, then yes, I do see the reviews and decide on the basis of them. But then, sometimes brand value also plays it's part, when I solely go by the reputation of the brand. There are times, when I also pick up something unpopular among the crowds to get the unique experience than others.
The second part of the answer is review of products which we had used in the past. In this case, even if the product has bad review, then also we don't mind using them because of our experience with it in the past. And the converse statement also applies.
Although, I am more of the intuitive person whose intuition is based on facts, hence I just compare the key points between few viable options and then go with the one whose features sounds amazing to me, and also their reputation is decent. For me, any items over 4* out of 5 is good product.
Do you miss your vacation days of school ?