We all know them. Movies that make us cringe, laugh, and wonder, “What were they thinking?” Yet, these films hold a special place in our hearts. They’re the “so bad, they’re good” movies, offering unintentional comedy and bizarre entertainment. Let’s dive into nine such films that have become beloved for all the wrong reasons.
Moonfall
“Moonfall” takes the concept of a disaster movie to outlandish extremes. The plot revolves around the Moon being a hollow megastructure overrun by evil alien technology. The absurdity peaks in scenes where characters try to outrun the Moon itself. It’s a visual and narrative spectacle of implausibility, making it a joy to watch for those who appreciate high-stakes ridiculousness.
Look Who’s Talking Now
The third installment in the “Look Who’s Talking” series, “Look Who’s Talking Now” swaps talking babies for talking dogs. Voiced by Danny DeVito and Diane Keaton, these canines provide inner monologues that are as entertaining as they are bizarre. The film’s odd premise and charmingly awkward execution make it a delightful guilty pleasure.
Gigli
Despite the star power of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, “Gigli” is infamous for its lack of chemistry and convoluted plot. The story of a hitman and a lesbian gangster who fall in love while caring for a kidnapped young man is as confusing as it sounds. Its sheer audacity and the visible discomfort of its leads contribute to its reputation as a cinematic train wreck worth watching.
Howard the Duck
Produced by George Lucas, “Howard the Duck” is a marvel of miscalculation. The film follows a wise-cracking, anthropomorphic duck from another planet who ends up on Earth. Critically panned and commercially unsuccessful, its bizarre premise and campy execution have since earned it a cult following. It’s a testament to how even talented creators can sometimes miss the mark spectacularly.
Battlefield Earth
“Battlefield Earth,” based on the novel by L. Ron Hubbard, stars John Travolta in a role that’s as over-the-top as the film itself. With its outlandish plot, awkward dialogue, and garish visual style, it’s a sci-fi epic that defies conventional standards of good filmmaking. Despite—or because of—its flaws, it has become a beloved classic among fans of so-bad-it’s-good cinema.
Jingle All the Way
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s foray into holiday comedy, “Jingle All the Way,” is a film that misses more jokes than it lands. The plot, centered around a father’s frantic search for a popular toy on Christmas Eve, offers plenty of opportunities for slapstick humor. While it fails to deliver on many fronts, its earnestness and chaotic energy make it a fun, if flawed, holiday watch.
Congo
Following the success of “Jurassic Park,” “Congo” attempted to capitalize on Michael Crichton’s popularity but fell short. The story of a jungle expedition to find a lost city guarded by killer gorillas is let down by lackluster special effects and a muddled plot. Despite this, its adventurous spirit and unintentional comedy have garnered it a devoted fanbase.
Jupiter Ascending
“Jupiter Ascending” is a sci-fi saga that stars Channing Tatum as a half-wolf warrior and Mila Kunis as a space princess. Eddie Redmayne’s peculiar performance as the villain is a highlight, adding to the film’s charm. The convoluted plot and bizarre dialogue make it a fascinating watch, especially for those who enjoy spotting cinematic oddities.
Anaconda
“Anaconda” features a fake-looking snake and questionable performances, most notably Jon Voight’s bizarre accent and over-the-top death scene. The film’s campiness is undeniable, making it an entertaining watch despite—or perhaps because of—its many shortcomings. Its blend of horror and unintentional humor has cemented its status as a cult classic.