Disappointing Hits: Why Some Box-Office Failures Deserved a Second Chance

When a film bombs at the box office, it often seems that the world has turned its back on it. But sometimes, these movies deserve a second chance for a different reason. Two films by Jared Hess stand out: Nacho Libre (2006) and Lessons from President Broncos (2009), both improvements over his breakthrough hit Napoleon Dynamite (2004). Let's explore why these films and others like John Carter from Mars (2012) could benefit from a reboot or revival.

Improving on the Hit: Jared Hess and His Lesser-Known Gems

Nacho Libre and Lessons from President Broncos were attempts at a more sophisticated comedy, stepping up from the quirky, heartwarming Napoleon Dynamite. However, they failed to garner the same level of success. While the initial popularity of Napoleon Dynamite created a viral meme, subsequent films lacked this cultural momentum, leading audiences to label them as "weird and dumb." This reaction is rather unfair, as the films are highly entertaining and filled with humor and wit.

John Carter: A Sci-Fi Gem Forgotten

Another example is John Carter from Mars (2012), a visually stunning science fiction epic that deserved more than its box office performance. Directed by Andrew Stanton, it blended action, adventure, and well-developed characters, capturing a distinct mix of epic storytelling and whimsical humor. Despite high production values and a dedicated fanbase, the film's box office performance was underwhelming. However, its merits as a sci-fi classic are undeniable, and a modern revival could introduce it to a new generation of fans.

A Sci-Fi Gem: Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension

Now, let us delve into an 1980s sci-fi classic, Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension. Directed by W.D. Richter, this film starred an all-star ensemble that included Peter Weller, Ellen Barkin, Jeff Goldblum, and John Lithgow. The movie isn't about being conventional; it's about combining all the tropes and ignoring them together. The plot is as convoluted and complex as it is compelling, leaving viewers intrigued by the sheer amount of plot you can pack into one film. The film is full of eye candy and deep, thought-provoking ideas that can captivate both the mind and the senses simultaneously.

Several aspects of Buckaroo Banzai are particularly notable. The ending credits add a unique touch, featuring an iconic and memorable scene. This scene is also referenced in Wes Anderson's film The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, adding another layer of significance. In the 1980s, sci-fi conventions like Vul-Con were incredibly fun, with a wide variety of activities and panels that brought science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts together. These conventions often screened rare movies, allowing fans to experience unique and sometimes overlooked treasures.

Legacy and Unsung Heroes

Though the sequel to Buckaroo Banzai was never produced, fans continued to support the legacy of the film. The "What was the watermelon doing in the vice?" question became a pop culture phenomenon, with fans sharing theories that the studio itself would never satisfactorily answer. Despite the film's offbeat style, it is rich in depth and imagination, offering more than just surface-level entertainment.

The Enduring Legacy of Sci-Fi Classics

These films, along with many others that have been passed over for their box office potential, demonstrate the importance of supporting underappreciated art. Sci-fi and comedy, in particular, often suffer from the box office pressure to be taken more seriously or to cater to a mass audience. However, these genres are also the ones that can offer the most creative freedom and fulfill the wildest dreams of filmmakers. Supporting these movies and reviving them can introduce new audiences to the joy of unconventional filmmaking and open up dialogue around commonly ignored cultural artifacts.

In conclusion, whether it's the quirky modern comedies of Jared Hess or the visually stunning sci-fi adventures of films like John Carter and Buckaroo Banzai, the box office failure of a movie is not the ultimate measure of its value. Supporting and giving these films a chance can lead to more meaningful and entertaining experiences for all.