There is something special about walking into a cinema when it’s empty, but some of our most cherished film experiences started out in cinemas with few people around. In fact, according to The Guardian, some of the best-rated movies ever were considered box office or critical disasters when they first opened. It seems that sometimes greatness needs a little time to get fully acknowledged by the masses.
The Shawshank Redemption
This prison drama was largely ignored in its original release during a packed year of film. It became a huge success when it was released on cable. It is now almost unmatched as a weepy favorite.
Donnie Darko
This surreal independent film was released in a complicated manner and was largely overlooked at the time. It went on to become a classic cult film for its dark and foreboding tone and surreal story.
It’s a Wonderful Life
It was a financial bomb and critical failure and was nearly unrecognized as a Christmas classic. It wasn’t until the movie was re-released on TV that its feel-good message became a worldwide phenomenon.
Citizen Kane
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Orson Welles’ masterpiece was plagued with controversy and lack of distribution opportunities at the time. It is now routinely considered by critics one of the best films ever.
The Wizard of Oz
This epic musical was a huge production but lost money on its original release. It ran into a profit after a few years and developed a cult following as a classic of early color film.
The Thing
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Amidst the more cuddly alien flicks of 1982, John Carpenter’s masterpiece was regarded as too violent. Today, it is recognized for its astonishing special effects and claustrophobic atmosphere.
Strange Days
1995’s Kathryn Bigelow science-fiction drama was a much anticipated release but a commercial failure. It was made for $42 million but grossed just $17 million. At the time it was panned for its dark, near-future tale, but it has since found a cult following for its originality.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
The 1971 Gene Wilder musical was a hit with children, but not with audiences. With a $3 million dollar budget, it made nearly $4 million at the box office. It became a classic for families years later via TV broadcasts and home video.
Fight Club
This film about modern life was lost on many during its initial release. It went on to acquire cult status, lauded for its biting satire and its brilliant plot.
The Iron Giant
Incompetent marketing doomed this animated story to become a cult classic. But it has been hailed on Rotten Tomatoes as a flawless and heartbreaking story for everyone.
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