Unfair Criticisms: Movies that Deserved Better Than Bad Reviews

In the world of film, no title is immune to the harsh judgment of critics and audiences. However, some movies are unfairly criticized, and over time, these same films end up gaining a much more positive reception from both viewers and newer critics. Let's take a closer look at Rocky IV, Gigli, and Shakespeare in Love, and why they deserve better than their initial reviews.

The Case of Rocky IV

When Rocky IV was released in 1985, it faced a barrage of criticism. Major critics apprehended that the series had become tired, and the movie felt like a formulaic, by-the-numbers continuation. While it enjoyed significant box office success, predominantly driven by the legacy of the previous films, it didn't resonate with audiences in the same way.

Many people felt that the storyline, which pitted Rocky Balboa against the Russian boxer Ivan Drago, had a clichéd and incessant feel. As a result, anticipation built up around Rocky V, hoping for a new direction and fresh take. However, Rocky V was a critical and commercial failure, further declining public interest in the franchise.

Over time, however, Rocky IV has been reassessed. Many modern critics and audiences appreciate the nostalgic elements and the positive performance of Sylvester Stallone, especially in a role that allowed him significant latitude to showcase his acting chops. In fact, the movie is now seen as a worthy successor to the other films in the series.

Interestingly, some younger viewers even regard Rocky IV as their favorite in the series, which is a testament to its enduring appeal and the quality of its content.

The Disappointing Gigli

When it comes to flops, the 2003 film Gigli stands out as one of the most notorious. Critics and audiences alike dismissed it as an overly sensationalized romantic drama. While it is true that Gigli failed to meet the expectations set by its premise, its initial reception was far more harsh than fair.

Part of the reason for Gigli's poor critical reception can be attributed to heightened public and critical attention towards the period romance of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, affectionately known as "Bennifer." As a result, Gigli was unfairly contrasted with the more appealing Bennifer storyline, leading to its failure to gain traction among the audience.

While Gigli didn't receive much love initially, it has since garnered a small but dedicated fanbase. The movie remains a cult classic, and its failure should be seen as more of a symptom of the media landscape than a reflection of the movie's quality.

A Critic's Error: Shakespeare in Love

Another prime example of a film that received an unfairly negative review is Shakespeare in Love. This 1998 romantic comedy-mystery gained overwhelming praise upon its initial release, even securing an Academy Award for Best Picture. However, the film's success and subsequent accolades have made it a prime target for critics who argue that it doesn't deserve its accolades.

The narrative of Shakespeare in Love centers around the love story and creative endeavors of playwright William Shakespeare, but it does so in a lighthearted, fictionalized manner, a significant departure from the realistic depictions of the Bard's life. Critics and some voters in the Academy Awards felt that its playful approach was a trivialization of the historical figure.

However, in retrospect, Shakespeare in Love is a masterclass in its genre. The screenplay, which won Tom Stoppard an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, is a gem. Gwyneth Paltrow's performance, highly acclaimed at the time, is still celebrated, and the supporting actors, including Geoffrey Rush and Judi Dench, provide stellar performances. The film is visually stunning, with numerous awards for art direction and costume design.

Ultimately, Shakespeare in Love is a testament to the flaws in the voting and critical processes, where sometimes a quality film is overshadowed by a mix of hype and misplaced aesthetics.

Conclusion

While film criticism is a subjective and dynamic field, it is essential to recognize that some films are unfairly criticized and even overlooked. Over time, these same movies often gain new appreciation from modern audiences and critics, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and balanced approach to film evaluation.

Whether it's the intense exuberance of Rocky IV, the dramatic and enduring failure of Gigli, or the romantic and humorous excellence of Shakespeare in Love, these films stand as prime examples of where fair criticism demands a rethink.

The takeaway is clear: it's not always about blockbuster success, but about the quality and enduring appeal of the art, which should be cherished and celebrated.