Not every movie is a critical darling, but that doesn’t mean they can’t worm their way into our hearts. In fact, there’s a certain charm to truly terrible films.
Here are 10 examples of cinematic trainwrecks that we can’t help but love:
Armageddon (1998)
Michael Bay at his most bombastic, Armageddon is a disaster movie with big explosions, a star-studded cast (including Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck), and Aerosmith’s power ballad “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” Who needs critical acclaim when you have that?
Grandma’s Boy (2006)
Allen Covert steps out of Adam Sandler’s shadow in this stoner comedy about a video game tester who moves in with his grandma. Grandma’s Boy is packed with gross-out humor, juvenile jokes, and outrageous situations. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re in the mood for a good laugh, it’s definitely worth a watch.
Hudson Hawk (1991)
Bruce Willis channels his inner Looney Tunes in this action-comedy. The plot is bonkers, the jokes are groan-worthy, but Willis’ infectious charisma and the film’s sheer lunacy make it a blast to watch.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Arnold Schwarzenegger goes full-on slapstick in this holiday-themed comedy about a desperate father who will do anything to get his son the must-have Turbo Man toy for Christmas. Jingle All the Way is a chaotic mess of over-the-top action, cheesy humor, and heartwarming moments (sort of).
John Tucker Must Die (2006)
This teen comedy is a relic of its time, but it’s still a guilty pleasure. The plot is predictable, the jokes are lame, but there’s something oddly endearing about its early 2000s aesthetic and its cast of young stars (including Jesse Metcalfe and Brittany Snow).
Tank Girl (1995)
This post-apocalyptic romp starring Lori Petty as the rebellious Tank Girl is a riot of punk rock attitude and absurdist humor. It’s a faithful adaptation of the cult comic book, and its over-the-top style has won over legions of fans.
The Cable Guy (1996)
Jim Carrey takes a dark turn in this black comedy about a stalker cable guy who befriends a lonely man. It’s a bizarre and unsettling film, but Carrey’s manic performance and the underlying themes of loneliness and alienation make it a weirdly fascinating watch.
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Roland Emmerich’s take on climate change is a ridiculous mash-up of disaster movie tropes and schmaltzy melodrama. But it’s also strangely entertaining, thanks to its over-the-top effects and Dennis Quaid’s scenery-chewing performance.
Van Helsing (2004)
Hugh Jackman battling Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster, and the Wolfman with steampunk gadgets and Kate Beckinsale by his side? Sign us up! This gothic action spectacle might be messy, but it’s pure popcorn fun, complete with cheesy one-liners and monster mayhem.
Waterworld (1995)
Kevin Costner’s post-apocalyptic aquatic adventure was a notorious box office flop, but it’s gained a cult following over the years. The underwater sets are impressive, the action sequences are thrilling, and Costner’s mullet is truly magnificent.
So next time you’re in the mood for a movie that’s so bad it’s good, pop on one of these cinematic gems. You might just find yourself laughing along with the absurdity of it all.
