Top 10 Hollywood Most Underrated Films
There are many underrated films that have not received the attention they deserve. Here are some examples across different genres:
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
This film stars Ben Stiller as a daydreaming photo editor who goes on a global adventure to find a missing photo negative. It received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a dedicated following for its stunning visuals and heartwarming story of self-discovery.
The Nice Guys (2016)
This buddy-cop comedy stars Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling as two detectives who team up to solve a missing person case in 1970s Los Angeles. Despite positive reviews, it underperformed at the box office, but its witty dialogue, stylish visuals, and memorable performances have earned it a cult following.
The Fall (2006)
Directed by Tarsem Singh, this visually stunning film follows the fantastical story of a hospitalized stuntman who tells a young girl a story about a group of heroes on a quest to defeat an evil ruler. It received critical acclaim for its imaginative storytelling and breathtaking visuals but was a commercial flop.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)
Based on the graphic novel by Bryan Lee O’Malley, this film follows the titular Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) as he battles his new girlfriend’s seven evil exes in a series of over-the-top fights. Despite its unique style, inventive storytelling, and cult following, it failed to make a significant impact at the box office.
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
This neo-noir crime comedy stars Robert Downey Jr. as a small-time thief who accidentally becomes an actor and gets caught up in a murder mystery with his childhood crush (Michelle Monaghan) and a detective (Val Kilmer). It received positive reviews but was a commercial disappointment, though it has since gained a cult following.
The Prestige (2006)
Directed by Christopher Nolan, this mystery thriller stars Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale as rival magicians in 19th century London who engage in a dangerous game of one-upmanship. Despite critical acclaim, it was overshadowed by Nolan’s other films and didn’t perform as well at the box office.
Speed Racer (2008)
This live-action adaptation of the beloved anime series follows Speed Racer (Emile Hirsch) as he competes in the dangerous and corrupt world of professional racing. Despite its dazzling visuals and faithful adaptation, it was a commercial and critical flop upon its release, though it has since gained a dedicated fanbase.
Children of Men (2006)
Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, this dystopian thriller takes place in a near-future world where humanity is infertile and on the brink of collapse. Clive Owen plays a former activist who must protect a miraculously pregnant woman and transport her to safety. Despite critical acclaim, it was a commercial disappointment but has since gained a devoted following.
Miller’s Crossing (1990)
Directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, this neo-noir crime film stars Gabriel Byrne as a right-hand man to a mob boss during Prohibition-era America. It received positive reviews but was overshadowed by the Coen brothers’ other films and didn’t perform as well at the box office.
Cloud Atlas (2012)
Directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer, this epic sci-fi drama follows multiple characters across different time periods and explores themes of interconnectedness and reincarnation. Despite its ambitious scope, impressive visual effects, and talented cast, it received mixed reviews and was a commercial disappointment, though it has since gained a dedicated following.