Sometimes, hidden cinematic gems emerge from the shadows of seemingly uninspiring premises or lackluster trailers. These unexpected triumphs, often operating on shoestring budgets, defy expectations and captivate audiences with their compelling narratives and captivating performances. While initial impressions may suggest mediocrity, these unsung heroes prove that true cinematic brilliance can manifest in the most unassuming guises.
A user asked the forum, “What movie did you have zero expectations going in that you loved?”. Here are some responses he got!
MY COUSIN VINNY
“When “My Cousin Vinny” came out, I thought this would be stupid. I laughed and laughed.”
STAR WARS
“I’m old, in 1977, my friends and I were supposed to see “Rocky” or something, but it was sold out. Instead, we went to a movie I had never heard of called “Star Wars.”
LEGO
“Lego Movie!!! What I thought would be a complete cash grab with no substance (looking at you, Emoji Movie), I left feeling like I got a big hug with the writing, the plot, and the talent!!”
EDGE OF TOMORROW
“Edge of Tomorrow. Didn’t know much about it outside. It wasn’t doing great in the box office, and no one knew what it was about.”
THE PIXAR
“Up (the Pixar movie). It was so beautiful and emotional. I’ve seen it many times since. Wonderful movie!”
PUSS IN BOOTS
“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish! It was so cute and funny but, at the same time, kind of had a deeper theme than I’d expect from a kids’ movie (Puss the Cat has now died eight times and is down to his last life and is realizing that he is going to die one day).”
CLUE
“Clue. Not what I expected. Amazing movie.”
LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE
“Little Miss Sunshine. I can’t remember what I expected going into the theater, but it certainly wasn’t what it turned out to be. Loved the movie.”
STARDUST
“I know I’m going to get for this, but it’s on a level with the princess bride. It’s intelligent and funny, all while staying family-friendly with a great story and lesson.”
CABIN IN THE WOODS
“Cabin in the Woods. Thought it was going to be a horror cliche movie; it ended up being one of my favorite movies!”
KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE
“It came out with no real advertising, the trailer looked average, and the theatre was almost empty when I saw it opening day.
The movie blew me away. I compare it to John Wick, where there was no hype or expectation, then it blew people’s socks clean off.”
SWISS ARMY MAN
“Multiple people walked out of Swiss once he became his boat. I knew then I’d love it.”
SPIDERMAN
“Watched it on a date expecting not even to want to pay attention. Now it’s my favorite superhero movie.”
TERMINATOR 2
“Terminator 2. I was dragged into seeing it. I’m not a fan of sci-fi/fantasy, but that is one fun movie.”
STAND BY ME
“Stand by me. I was ten, and I loved every minute of it.”
DISTRICT 9
“I walked into the theater wholly blind and barely heard about it.
Me and some friends just walked past a poster and agreed it looked interesting. One of my best cinema experiences.”
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This article was originally published on Mrs. Daaku Studio.