Audiences around the world can be unforgiving towards certain films for various reasons, whether due to mismanaged expectations, marketing failures, or simply not resonating at the box office. Despite initial setbacks, some movies have the potential to gain a loyal following and achieve cult status over time. Here’s a list of recent Hollywood flops that may just find redemption as future cult classics:
Number 8: Bros (2022)
“Bros” is a 2022 American romantic comedy starring Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane as two gay men navigating relationships in Manhattan.
Directed by Nicholas Stoller, the film was produced by Stoller, Judd Apatow, and Josh Church. Despite positive reviews, it failed to recoup its $22 million budget, grossing only $14.8 million worldwide.
Number 7: Three Thousand Years of Longing (2022)
Directed by George Miller, this fantasy romantic drama stars Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton.
Although visually stunning and ambitious, it received mixed reviews and struggled at the box office, despite its innovative storytelling.
Number 6: The Book of Clarence (2023)
Jeymes Samuel’s biblical comedy-drama follows a man in AD 33 Jerusalem who claims to be the Messiah.
Starring LaKeith Stanfield and Omar Sy, it garnered attention for its unconventional approach but failed to find commercial success.
Number 5: The Last Duel (2021)
Ridley Scott’s historical drama about a medieval trial by combat stars Matt Damon, Adam Driver, and Jodie Comer.
Despite critical acclaim, it underperformed at the box office, overshadowed by other releases.
Number 4: Beau Is Afraid (2023)
Directed by Ari Aster, this surrealist tragicomedy horror stars Joaquin Phoenix.
Known for its bold narrative and distinct style, it received praise but struggled to attract a wide audience.
Number 3: Haunted Mansion (2023)
Justin Simien’s supernatural horror comedy, based on Disney’s theme park attraction, features LaKeith Stanfield and Tiffany Haddish.
Despite a star-studded cast, it failed to resonate with audiences and suffered financially.
Number 2: Soul (2020)
Pixar’s animated fantasy comedy-drama follows a musician’s journey through the afterlife.
While critically acclaimed, its release during the pandemic limited its box office success, though it found popularity on streaming platforms.
Number 1: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024)
Set in the “Mad Max” universe and directed by George Miller, this prequel stars Anya Taylor-Joy as a young Furiosa.
Highly anticipated but facing challenges at the box office, it’s poised to be a future cult classic.
These films, with their distinctive narratives and creative ambitions, possess the hallmarks of future cult classics. While their initial reception may have been muted, their ability to resonate deeply with niche audiences and defy conventional expectations sets them apart. As time unfolds, these cinematic gems are poised to carve out their own enduring legacies in the annals of Hollywood’s cult film lore.
