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- There is no shortage of box office flops that eventually become cult classics after a home release or a period of re-evaluation by both the public and critics. These iconic films may have been underappreciated when they were released, but thanks to word of mouth and the power of online communities, they have generated a steady fanbase that continues to discuss, review and rate films.
Cult films are an intriguing commodity; able signifier for the difference between a critic and an admirer. On a purely fundamental basis, the purpose of cinema is to entertain. More broadly, however, cinema offers social and cultural commentary as well as introspection. Ultimately, it is the expectations of the critic.
For a film to earn its infamous “cult classic” status, it relies on a particularly dedicated fan base. Often these films are underestimated by critics upon release or, in a more romantic sense, are considered simply ahead of their time. However, over time, they can rise to new heights of appreciation and success.
There is no shortage of box office flops that eventually become cult classics after a home release or a period of re-evaluation by both the public and critics. These iconic films may have been underappreciated when they were released, but thanks to word of mouth and the power of online communities, they have generated a steady fanbase that continues to discuss, review and rate films.
“Office Space” (1999)
Amid today’s culture of technology dependency and the routine of office jobs, office space very relevant picture. Alas, the release date, which fell at the end of the 90s, Mike Judgecomedy was just one step ahead. He was mocking a slightly depressing reality that simply hadn’t materialized yet, at least not in a broad sense.
Concerning office space makes for some eerily accurate viewing. But don’t let that detract from the quality of the film, which has valiant honesty, a dissonant soundtrack, and insightful understanding of dialogue that holds true character. The printer’s famous murder scene (now considered infamous) is also something of an inspirational addition.
The Big Lebowski (1998)
When raising a question about which The Coen Brothers film can be considered their most significant, the general opinion is usually on the side of films such as Old people don’t belong here as well as Fargo. However, the most popular tend to share opinions. Though you could easily justify The Big Lebowski.
The Coens’ stoner-style comedy about L.A. slacker, The Dude, is endlessly quotable and depicts more of the Coen’s artistic nuances than is often given away. His fan base was even empowered enough to create his own inspiring religion and philosophical lifestyle, Dudeism.
‘Clerks’ (1994)
Origin story of how Kevin Smith raise funds for financing Clerks should, by all rights, preach to any aspiring film director. Smith used all the credit cards and sold personal award-winning comics to scrape together just over $27,000 to write, direct and produce his black-and-white comedy about a day in the life of two convenience store salesmen, Dante and Randal.
Smith filmed after hours at the store where he worked and released the film on momentum, which steadily began to gain momentum. In 2019, the film was inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, whose film collection is considered “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”
“Super Soldiers” (2001)
Due to its success through word of mouth distribution and a dedicated fan base, Super Soldiers tells an often very funny story about five Vermont State Troopers who have a habit of pranks and pranks. Starring Jay Chandrasekhar (who also directed and co-wrote), the film was a moderate success, but spawned a legion of fans in later years who were captivated by the film’s brash comedic style.
What follows the movie will eventually inspire broken lizardsuccess as a comedy troupe and led to a sequel, Super Soldiers 2made from a $4.4 million crowdfunding campaign (the second most successful amount ever).
‘Fight Club’ (1999)
As is now common knowledge, Fight club was ultimately polarized by critics, with some seeing it as a beefy glorification of violence and masculinity. This consensus was fueled in part by the news that real fight clubs were starting to pop up from time to time across America because impressionable viewers misinterpreted the overall message of the story.
Themes expressed in Chuck Palahniukoriginal novel, such as the fragility of masculinity and the viciousness of consumerism, are properly reflected in David Fincheradaptation that carries all the stylistic features of a respected author. Enduring attraction of Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt) will also result in him being voted the 8th Greatest Movie Character of All Time by Empire Magazine.
‘American Psycho’ (2000)
In a manner somewhat similar to Fight club, american psychoexcessive use of hyperbolic violence naturally offends the more sensitive viewer. While the original writer Brett Easton Ellis could rely on the more subjective nature of the imagination, the film is a visual spectacle based on the instant reaction of the audience.
Despite this, the controversial story of investment banker Patrick Bateman and his hedonistic tendencies is much more than just a nihilistic exploration of violence. Treating this film as something more would effectively subdue the yuppie critique and moral ambivalence required for a successful career on Wall Street.
“The Shawshank Redemption” (1994)
Frank DarabontX The Shawshank Redemption It’s a cult movie in every sense of the word. In more vivid terms, this is an unmistakable cult classic. IMDbThe film, which received the most user feedback, underperformed at the box office upon its initial release, but has since become a cultural darling of film fans after making a significant profit from home video sales and longtime cable TV fixtures.
Hailed for its compelling storytelling, the film’s rather enduring popularity allows the veteran actor Bob Gunton receive residual checks to this day. At the same time, the influence Morgan Freeman’s Red will inspire voice acting throughout the history of entertainment.
“Hedwig and the Evil Inch” (2001)
Directed and starring John Cameron Mitchell Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a musical comedy-drama in which the main character and her band perform in bars and restaurants without much success. Hedwig’s complex past is shown in a flashback that prominently chronicles her journey to finding her gender identity and her confusing history with her now successful, ex-turned-rock star, Tommy (Michael Pitt).
The film grossed just over half of its budget, making it an immediate box office failure that remained underappreciated until it became a cult hit. Now the critically acclaimed film is way ahead of its time when it comes to presenting non-binary novels in a ridiculously entertaining and touching tale of fame, betrayal and identity.
“Children of Men” (2006)
Set in the near dystopian future of 2027, director Alfonso CuaronX children of men depicts a world suffering from infertility. The last remaining UK government is overrun with desperate asylum seekers. Amid the chaos, former activist Theo Faron became disillusioned (Clive Owen), who finds himself embroiled in a treacherous mission that could determine the future of humanity.
Once a box office bomb children of men is now frequently cited alongside the best sci-fi dramas ever made. It has gained a cult following thanks to its remarkable story, incredible pace, and stunning cinematography that make the film a true standout in the dystopian genre.
‘Donnie Darko’ (2001)
Perhaps among the clearest examples of an underrated film that has become a cult classic, director Richard KellyX Donnie Darko didn’t get much attention when it first premiered. A sci-fi psychological thriller that follows the protagonist (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) was too bizarre for the general public, and became an outright flop upon release.
As is often the case with hidden gems of the 2000s, home DVD sales and fresh eyes from viewers around the world have given it a well-deserved fan base. It is now a well-known cult film, beloved for its strange atmosphere and dizzying plot.
Source: Collider
