Surprising Movies and TV Shows I Loved Despite Initial Skepticism

I often find myself in a peculiar position where I'd avoided a movie or TV show due to some initial aversion or low expectations, only to be pleasantly surprised by the final product. Here are some examples that stick out:

The Predator (2018) — A Shocking Reveal

The Predator is one such movie. When I first heard about the plot and the casting, I had low expectations. The idea of another Predator movie, after the disappointing and inconsistent entries in the series, was daunting. However, the trailer brought a shock—never have I seen an alien vs. human flick that actually looked interesting. When the movie hit Disney and I reluctantly decided to watch it, I was in for a pleasant surprise. The film had a unique storyline that kept me engaged, and the action sequences were really well-executed. It’s funny how you sometimes underestimate a movie’s potential and end up loving it.

Night of the Iguana (1964) — A Forgotten Gem

Another notable example is Night of the Iguana. I kept this film at bay due to the presence of an ensemble cast including Richard Burton, Deborah Kerr, and Ava Gardner. These actors are legendary and their chemistry on screen is undeniable, but the thought of watching a play adaptation felt… taxing. However, when I found an old VHS and gave it a chance, I was floored. The performances were incredible, the writing was thoughtful, and it was a genuinely moving and memorable experience. Hollywood has many hidden gems like this, and I'm glad it wasn’t one of my missed opportunities.

Back to the Future (1985) — A Childhood Staple

As a child, Back to the Future was a mildly amusing film I watched only because a friend who saw it on the big screen was enthusiastically recommending it. I barely paid it any mind at the time. I didn’t see it until it aired on NBC because of the Teen Wolf fandom, and I chuckled at its classic 80s charm. However, when rewatching it with a more mature perspective, I realized how ahead of its time and brilliantly crafted it is. The humor, the suspense, and the iconic characters have stood the test of time. Back to the Future is a wonderful example of a movie that initially seemed underwhelming but grew on me over time.

Charmed (1998-2006) — Sexier in Tight Jeans

Another surprise comes from the TV show Charmed. Initially, I was irritated by the presence of Alyssa Milano and Shannon Doherty, who often had over-the-top and cringeworthy scenes. However, upon rewatching, I found myself captivated by their on-screen chemistry and the physical transformation as they aged on the show. In Who’s the Boss? and 90210, they were still relatively youthful, but in Charmed, they were sexier and more natural on screen. It's fascinating to see how the show evolved and how the characters grew, making them more relatable and captivating.

Jersey Shore — A Humorous Contrast

Jersey Shore is less about the show itself and more about a character within it. However, I include it because it’s truly hilarious. The character known as 'The Situation' engages in a club conversation with a girl. He knows the girl is with another woman and asks roughly, 'Did you meet her tonight?' This scene is so relatable and captures the essence of how people behave in such situations. The humor in Jersey Shore is more endearing than crude, making it a memorable experience.

Conclusion

These examples highlight the unpredictability of movies and TV shows. Sometimes, the initial aversion can be a blessing in disguise. You never know what hidden gems are waiting to be discovered when you take those chances. Whether it's a classic film like Night of the Iguana, a beloved series like Back to the Future, or a popular reality show like Jersey Shore, there’s always a chance for an unexpected love. The key is to keep an open mind and give things a chance, even when you're not sure about them.