Overcoming Critical Consensus: Films I Loved Despite Negative Reviews
Overcoming Critical Consensus: Films I Loved Despite Negative Reviews
Have you ever enjoyed a film that received negative reviews from critics or audiences? If so, what made it stand out to you and why did you like it? Today, I will share with you some of my personal favorites that, despite receiving negative reviews upon their initial release, captivated me in ways critics did not anticipate. These films are a testament to how different perspectives can lead to the discovery of hidden gems.
Gruesome Gems: 'Murders in the Rue Morgue' and 'The Black Cat'
Two horror films from the 1930s, Murders in the Rue Morgue (1932) and The Black Cat (1934), offer a complex mix of visual and narrative elements. Critics often panned these films for their depictions of violent content, sadism, and torture, which they deemed suitable only at the cost of poor taste. However, personal preference often triumphs over critical opinion, and that is certainly the case with these films.
Murders in the Rue Morgue (1932), for instance, ran approximately 75 minutes but was later edited to 61 minutes, likely due to concerns about the depiction of a prostitute being tortured. Similarly, The Black Cat (1934) faced criticism for its dark themes and explicit references to Satanism, with Boris Karloff being skinned alive by Bela Lugosi.
Despite these criticisms, these films stand out for their intricate storytelling and the commitment of their cast and crew. Even in their shortened forms, these films maintain a unique appeal, making them undeniably fascinating and worth exploring.
Well-Worth the Watch: 'The Arrangement'
Another film that received negative reviews upon release but remains one of my favorites is the 1989 film The Arrangement, starring Kirk Douglas. This movie critiques the advertising industry and examines family relationships in a fresh and insightful manner. Although it scored only a 55% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.4 on IMDb, I consider it a cinematic treasure.
The film features an ensemble cast that brings their A-game. Pierce Brosnan, Glenn Close, Jack Nicholson, Annette Bening, Michael J. Fox, Rod Steiger, and Sarah Jessica Parker all deliver memorable performances. Each actor’s character, especially Jack Nicholson's dual role as the US President and a shady casino owner, adds depth and intrigue.
The film itself is a brilliant satire, poking fun at Alien invasion movies, White House naivety, Peaceniks, and the US military establishment. It also critiques patriotic Americans and even criticizes Tim Burton, the director. The movie is a tour de force of social commentary and humor, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate deep, satirical films.
More Undervalued Gems
There are several other films that, while not receiving a lot of attention, have stayed with me due to their unique qualities. For example, the 1986 film Turn the River is a personal favorite. Other movies like The Duck, It: Chapter Two, and Evil: The Final Chapter offer captivating narratives with their own quirks and peculiarities.
It is worth mentioning that the 1999 film Jawbreaker, directed by Kimberly Peirce, is another hidden gem. It offers a different perspective on the typical high school story, making it a standout in its genre. Additionally, Werewolf in Paris (1997) and Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters (2013) are thrilling films that are often overlooked by the mainstream audience.
In conclusion, sometimes it takes a different perspective to see the beauty in a film that critics might dismiss. These films, despite their negative reviews, have a certain charm and humor that critics may have missed. Whether it’s the unique plotting, the memorable acting, or the social commentary, these movies offer a wealth of stories that are more than what their critics might have expected.