10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

As a cinephile with over two decades of movie-watching under my belt and a keen eye for detail, I have to admit that these goofs are quite noticeable, even to casual viewers. The delayed reaction from Harvey Dent in “The Dark Knight” was indeed an oddity that took me out of the scene momentarily, and it’s surprising how such a small detail could detract from the film’s overall impact.


Despite some questionable scenes filled with tedious dialogue, wooden acting, subpar camera work, obvious mistakes, and moments that leave viewers scratching their heads, even the best-made movies can’t always avoid making less than ideal choices. In today’s movie world where quality is often a roll of the dice, there are still films that manage to come close to achieving this level of resilience.

As a connoisseur of cinema, I can’t deny the undeniable greatness of these movies, but it’s also intriguing to pause and acknowledge instances where these masterpieces were momentarily dimmed by seemingly insignificant scenes. Yet, these fleeting moments somehow manage to infuse an extra dose of charm and relatability into these films, even during their less compelling stretches.

10 The Mannequin

Spider-Man (2002)

Sam Raimi’s unique portrayal of Spider-Man laid the foundation for future superhero movies by skillfully embodying the comic book style, the lovable yet imperfect traits of Peter Parker, and delivering an outstanding portrayal of the Green Goblin by Willem Dafoe. However, this impressive work was quickly undermined when Spider-Man resorted to using a mannequin to save Mary Jane.

Great Practical Effects Were Overshadowed by Mannequin Spidey

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

Sam Raimi’s vibrant cinematic approach matched the comic adaptation seamlessly, and before this movie, it was evident that Raimi valued practical effects through “Evil Dead.” This affinity for practical effects persisted in Spider-Man’s sequel, where they employed puppetry to create Doctor Octopus’s mechanical arms.

Throughout most of Spider-Man, the mix of CGI and real-world effects was impressive. However, during a scene involving M.J.’s web-swinging, the movie opted not to use a stunt double for Tobey Maguire. Instead, they used a mannequin as a stand-in, which made the sequence appear rigid and underwhelming. In a film filled with high-quality effects, Spider-Man unintentionally introduced a humorous blunder into the movie that nearly made it flawless without it.

9 The Car “Commercial”

Barbie (2023)

Greta Gerwig’s movie Barbie delves deeply into the complexities of femininity, masculinity, and the struggle to define one’s individuality in a world still clinging to outdated labels and expectations. The powerful messaging and artistic touch that Gerwig brings to Barbie make this particular scene seem contrived and lacking purpose.

It Created Excessive Product Placement in a Film Already About a Product

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

In my cinematic journey, as Gloria and Sasha aid Barbie in her daring breakout from Mattel’s grip, an unexpected interruption unfolds – a Chevy ad intrusively interrupts the scene. As we flee in one of their rugged SUVs, the ensuing chase becomes strikingly reminiscent of a car commercial, showcasing Chevrolet’s prowess for handling any situation with panache.

Despite the irony of criticizing a lackluster scene in a film centered around a product, it was surprisingly devoid of charm and excitement compared to Greta Gerwig’s typical depth and careful craftsmanship.

8 The Flying Stock Footage Scene

First Reformed (2017)

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

Under the guidance of director Paul Schrader, the movie titled “First Reformed” delves into the intricate connection between faith, science, and our planet’s future as it confronts this persistent struggle. The narrative revolves around Pastor Toller, who gradually comes to terms with the impending climate catastrophe, all while dealing with a deceased parishioner’s family, including his widowed pregnant wife.

In the movie ‘First Reformed‘, the protagonist, Toller, delves deeply into the spiritual mind amidst scientific truths and startling human discoveries. However, this exploration almost achieves perfection when Toller encounters Mary, his widowed wife, in a challenging confrontation.

The Flying Felt Very Kitschy

In this portrayal, Toller is seen consoling Mary through a shared meditation practice that she and her deceased spouse often employed. Subsequently, as Toller visualizes the potential destruction of our planet due to excessive human exploitation, they seem to rise above (or “levitate”) in their mental state.

In most films, a striking and dreamlike element would enhance the story, especially considering their realistic approach. However, in “First Reformed,” prolonged drone shots persist for nearly five minutes, which disrupts the film’s flow negatively and shifts the viewer’s experience from being immersed in the movie to an artificial and forced exploration of Toller’s mind.

7 The Farting Scene

The Holdovers (2023)

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In the film titled “The Holdover“, director Alexander Payne delves into the lives of a professor, student, and chef during winter break at a boys’ school. The movie offers insightful and poignant explorations of how individuals cling to their past selves and the past, making it a thought-provoking and unexpectedly humorous portrayal of the trials and triumphs of an unusual trio. While generally well-received, this near-masterpiece contains a minor, albeit crude and seemingly insignificant scene that missed the mark for some viewers in terms of humor.

The Gross Moment Had No Greater Purpose​​​

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

In a realistic portrayal that some found amusing, Paul Giamatti’s character prepares for bed and passes gas in the movie. However, this scene seemed overly explicit given that at this point in the film, viewers are already aware of his aloof, socially awkward demeanor and occasional untidiness.

Looking back, it could be seen as an effort to show a more human side of him. However, for others, that particular scene was not amusing at all and even a bit off-putting when compared to the overall finesse of the movie.

6 The Mother’s Dive

Barbarian (2022)

Zach Creggor’s creation, titled Barbarian, blends chilling true-crime narratives with fantastical elements, as portrayed by Georgina Campbell who encounters eerie hauntings within the Airbnb she lodges in. Creggor skillfully incorporates gruesome body horror and tension throughout the film, culminating in the reveal of the full monster at the end. In a desperate bid to save her character Tess, whom she considers her child, the Mother performs an act that some viewers found humorous as she leaps to break Tess’s fall.

The Scene Created a Lighthearted Tone in a Scary Situation

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

Despite some humorous elements in “Barbarian,” the cinematography during the Mother’s dive significantly changed the film’s closing tone. The Mother’s demise could have been presented more solemnly, or even filmed from a different perspective to minimize the noticeability of the CGI.

At this stage, it became clear that the creature’s role as a mother was complete. A more solemn conclusion to her suffering might have been more appropriate, instead of an end that some viewers found humorous or nonsensical due to its experimental nature.

5 Arthur’s Trick

Inception (2010)

Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed film, Inception, left audiences puzzled yet captivated by its innovative visual style, camera work, and complex narrative structure. Unfortunately, despite its intricacies, it wasn’t immune to a well-worn trope that jarred some viewers out of the intense scenes.

The Kiss Was Cheesy and There Was No Buildup

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

In a surreal setting, Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s and Elliot Page’s characters disguise themselves as dream inhabitants. As the residents of this dream grow suspicious due to their peculiarities, they start searching for the dreamers. During this tense instance, Arthur instructs Ariadne to kiss him, claiming it’s necessary for the mission. However, when the kiss doesn’t work out as planned, Arthur nonchalantly admits, “Well, I guess I’ll never know if it was worth a try.”

Despite the possible intention for humor, the familiar scene in this distinctive movie can momentarily disrupt the suspense. Additionally, their relationship lacked sufficient development before this instance, leading to a somewhat contrived romantic plotline, since they merely collaborate as characters.

4 Legolas Surfing

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

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Peter Jackson’s film adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works are remarkably faithful to the source material, and Jackson went to great lengths to preserve the essence of the original texts. However, one particular scene in the movie feels out of place because it appears that comedic action sequences were given more emphasis than the significance of the battle. This doesn’t diminish the enjoyment factor of the scene, but it does make it seem unnecessary and without purpose when viewed objectively.

It Was a Goofy Choice in a Fight Scene

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

Legolas finds himself surfing down the stairs on a shield during the battle of Helm’s Deep. Of course, this is a fantasy movie and the moment’s popularity resulted in the surfing scene being loved by some viewers. The scene still adds nothing more than visual shock and entertainment value.

3 Harvey Dent Does Not Recognize Joker

The Dark Knight (2008)

Christopher Nolan skillfully orchestrates this movie, blending suspenseful action and emotional drama. A notable instance occurs when Harvey Dent encounters the notorious Joker, portrayed by Heath Ledger. While this scene carries significant importance to the plot, a minor oversight within it was glaring enough that it gained widespread attention among viewers, earning its own share of notoriety.

Dent’s Shock Felt Delayed and Out of Place

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

In the scene intended to create high tension in the movie, Harvey Dent’s showdown with the Joker was supposed to be crucial due to the intertwining fates of all the characters. Yet, for an unnerving duration, Dent seems oblivious to the fact that his nurse appears suspicious or out of sorts.

In simpler terms, while some might argue that Harvey Dent was confused and under the influence of delirium when he failed to react immediately to the clown in the nurses’ uniform, this lackluster response was still glaringly obvious to viewers. This oversight unintentionally diminished the intended impact of the scene, causing it to stand out as a minor yet bothersome anomaly in an otherwise flawless film.

2 The Fake Baby

American Sniper (2014)

Clint Eastwood’s critically acclaimed movie, “American Sniper,” offers a gripping exploration of war through the lens of Chris Kyle, known as the deadliest marksman in military history. Despite garnering multiple Oscar nominations, the film became particularly noteworthy due to the use of a lifelike doll in one of its scenes, sparking discussion and controversy among viewers.

The Baby Was Distracting and It Dampened the Moment

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

The scene depicts the emotional distance between Kyle and his wife Taya as he is preoccupied with thoughts of his time serving in the Iraq War. Taya decides to bring up what is going on between them while giving Kyle his son to hold and put to sleep. The baby in the scene was so obviously fake that any substance in the scene had quickly disappeared.

In my perspective as a supporter, it’s clear that a few oversights detracted from the realism in that particular scene. For instance, the absence of covering the doll with a blanket seemed overlooked, and there was a moment when Bradley Cooper had to adjust the doll’s arm for authenticity. Collectively, these details made the scene feel incongruous, leading me to believe that the film could have benefited from keeping the baby off-screen during that specific moment. This would have undeniably improved the overall flow and quality of the movie.

1 The Broken Glass Scene

The Breakfast Club (1985)

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John Hughes’ iconic film, titled “The Breakfast Club“, offers a near-flawless portrayal of a charming high school clique, showcasing their unique traits and shared experiences. Remarkably, Hughes skillfully crafts characters from various social backgrounds, highlighting their commonalities and interconnectedness. Notably, there’s a scene where the group experiment with drugs, but this segment has an unexpected outcome because of The Athlete’s unfavorable response to the substance.

The Scene Was Illogical and Distracting Overall

10 Most Pointless Scenes in Good Movies

Despite the teens exhibiting normal and amusing responses to the marijuana, Andrew displays an unexpected burst of energy, dancing and flipping around the room. This action, reminiscent of a John Hughes film, is regretted by the creator as it disrupts the realistic feel. However, this scene becomes unavoidable when Andrew screams at a fairly loud volume, causing the glass door to shatter completely.

Though the initial scene helped with the atmosphere of the film, The Athlete’s sudden outburst tanked the reality of the scene.

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2024-08-05 06:32