Busting the Box Office Blues: 10 Disliked Action Movies That Are Actually Not That Bad
When it comes to action movies, we often have high expectations. We crave adrenaline-fueled sequences, over-the-top stunts, and memorable one-liners. But sometimes, even the most promising flicks end up being panned by critics and audiences alike. The question is, are these movies really as bad as they’re made out to be?
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at 10 action movies that have been widely disliked, but perhaps undeservedly so. From films with convoluted plots to those with underwhelming performances, we’ll be exploring the reasons behind their negative receptions and asking the question: are they really as bad as everyone says?
The Unfairly Maligned: “Snake Eyes” (2021) and Its Wasted Potential
When a film fails to meet expectations, it’s easy to join the chorus of criticism and dismiss it as a lost cause. However, as we’ve seen with other films on this list, sometimes there’s more to a movie than its initial reception suggests. Such is the case with “Snake Eyes,” a film that, despite its flaws, boasts a talented cast and intriguing premise.
A Cast of Rising Stars Trapped in a By-the-Books Origin Story
One of the most striking aspects of “Snake Eyes” is its talented cast, featuring rising stars like Henry Golding, Andrew Koji, and Iko Uwais. Golding, in particular, shines as the titular G.I. Joe, bringing a charisma and magnetism that makes him a compelling leading man. It’s a shame, then, that the film’s by-the-numbers origin story doesn’t give him or his co-stars much to work with.
The Failure of Modern Action Sequences: A Lesson in Poor Direction
One of the most significant problems with “Snake Eyes” is its poorly executed action sequences. Director Robert Schwentke’s decision to rely on shaky-cam close-ups and rapid-fire cuts results in fight scenes that are more nauseating than exhilarating. This approach is particularly frustrating given the film’s focus on martial arts and the talent of its cast. With actors like Uwais, known for their impressive fight choreography, it’s baffling that the film doesn’t take more advantage of their skills.
The action scenes in “Snake Eyes” are a perfect example of how not to direct a fight sequence. Rather than showcasing the actors’ abilities, the camera cuts away from the action, making it difficult to follow what’s happening. This approach not only makes the scenes less engaging but also wastes the potential of the film’s talented cast.
George Miller’s Signature Style Shines Through Despite Its PG-13 Execution
While “Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome” may not be the most beloved installment in the Mad Max franchise, it still boasts many of the qualities that make George Miller’s films so compelling. Despite its PG-13 rating, which may have toned down the film’s violence and intensity, Miller’s signature style still shines through in various aspects of the film.
The Film’s Production Design and Costuming
One of the standout elements of “Beyond Thunderdome” is its production design and costuming. Miller’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the film’s world-building, from the intricate sets to the elaborate costumes. The film’s increased focus on world-building and different societies in the wasteland adds depth and complexity to the Mad Max universe.
The supporting cast, including Tina Turner’s Aunty Entity and the chaotic duo of Master Blaster, are perfectly suited to Miller’s creative vision. These characters add to the film’s sense of chaos and unpredictability, making “Beyond Thunderdome” a more engaging and memorable experience.
“Super Mario Bros.” (1993): A Sci-Fi Fantasy Adventure Worth Revisiting
Often maligned as one of the worst video game adaptations, “Super Mario Bros.” is a film that has been unfairly dismissed. While it may not be a faithful adaptation of the beloved video game, it’s a sci-fi fantasy adventure with some interesting and innovative elements.
The Film’s Gothic, Cyberpunk World and Exceptional Puppet Work
One of the most striking aspects of “Super Mario Bros.” is its gothic, cyberpunk world of Dinohattan. The film’s production design is a marvel, with intricate sets and exceptional puppet work that rivals some of the best in the industry. The world-building in “Super Mario Bros.” is ambitious and imaginative, making it a fascinating watch.
As a standalone film, “Super Mario Bros.” is surprisingly effective in its storytelling, with a narrative that’s engaging and entertaining. While it may not be a faithful adaptation of the video game, it’s a sci-fi fantasy adventure that’s worth revisiting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of 10 disliked action movies that are actually not that bad has unveiled a treasure trove of underrated gems that deserve a second chance. From the visually stunning “The Doom Generation” to the adrenaline-fueled “Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever”, we’ve delved into the often-misjudged world of action cinema, where critical reception and audience opinion can be misleading. By reexamining these films through a fresh lens, we’ve discovered that they offer a unique blend of style, substance, and entertainment value that sets them apart from their more popular counterparts.
The significance of this topic lies in its ability to challenge our preconceived notions of what makes a “good” action movie. It encourages us to look beyond the superficial and appreciate the nuances that make these films tick. Moreover, it highlights the importance of giving movies a second chance, as our initial reactions can be influenced by a multitude of factors, including marketing, hype, and cultural context. As we move forward in the ever-evolving landscape of action cinema, it’s essential to keep an open mind and not dismiss a film solely based on its initial reception.
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