Musicals With Terrible Rotten Tomatoes Scores That Are Actually Awesome

Musical films are simply extraordinary, spanning from the classic days of “42nd Street” and “All That Jazz” in the 1970s to contemporary hits like “Wicked,” “Better Man,” and “West Side Story.” The world of musical cinema has given us some of the most memorable movies ever made. Yet, not all musical films are destined to be hit movies. Poor critical reception often keeps audiences away from these productions in the theater. Unfortunately, many excellent musical films have been unfairly criticized, a fact that is unfortunate because many of these panned movies actually possess genuine artistic value. In truth, some of the most critically panned musicals are truly enjoyable to watch.

Initially, these movies received negative reviews, but as time passed, they proved to be much more impressive than their initial reception indicated. Some were not well-understood when first released; others were innovative in their use of music and storytelling. Over the years, they’ve gained a dedicated fanbase due to fond memories and nostalgia. Despite poor reviews, these movies didn’t fade away but instead became timeless classics that many now consider exceptional. It seems that initial popularity is not a prerequisite for becoming an enduring musical masterpiece.

Mamma Mia!

2008’s musical film “Mamma Mia!” was often misunderstood by critics, as best expressed by a character in “Lady Bird.” They didn’t quite grasp the essence of it. Critics found issues with its thin plot, lead actors’ singing abilities, and lengthy runtime, which led to a mediocre 55% freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, what they failed to recognize was the sheer joy that “Mamma Mia!” brought and its representation of musical cinema’s potential. In musical films, people harmonizing their feelings opens up endless possibilities – the only boundary being your creativity. Notable musicals such as “Eega,” “Singin’ in the Rain,” “The Young Girls of Rochefort,” and countless others have shown us just how captivating these possibilities can be. Instead of being a sign of poor writing, “Mamma Mia!” continued this tradition by showcasing the charm and enchantment that musical cinema is capable of.

A group of scuba divers dancing on a pier while belting out “Lay All Your Love On Me” is an extraordinary scene that couldn’t be found in any other genre. The scene where “Mamma Mia!” pauses its narrative for Christine Baranski to serenade hunky younger men with “Does Your Mother Know” may not adhere to the traditional three-act structure, but it mirrors the style of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” focusing more on visually captivating musical performances. Furthermore, the energetic performances by actors like Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan make even the most off-key vocals charmingly endearing. It’s hard to believe that critics could resist something as enjoyable as “Mamma Mia!

Xanadu

Despite receiving harsh criticism for its uneven performances, choppy narrative, and budgetary constraints, “Xanadu” remains a quirky delight with its unique blend of dance numbers, Greek mythology, roller-skating disco, and Gene Kelly. The film’s soundtrack, filled with Electric Light Orchestra tunes, also helps cement it as a product of the ’80s. Despite the negative reviews, “Xanadu” has managed to maintain a cult following for more than four decades.

In contrast to repetitive and predictable contemporary musicals like “The Prom” and “Dear Evan Hansen”, the eccentricity of “Xanadu” stands out distinctly. Even the most outrageous moments from this movie have earned legendary status, and its lavish costumes and dance routines remain a visual delight even decades later. Additionally, it’s a rarity among film musicals for being concise in runtime, clocking in at just 93 minutes, including credits. To top it off, “Xanadu” was Gene Kelly’s final role on screen. Some may view this as an underwhelming conclusion to the screen legend’s career, but he still showcases his unwavering talent and artistic dedication within these unusual boundaries. Watching him perform one last time amidst such a burst of creativity lends “Xanadu” qualities that its critical reviews might not have acknowledged.

The End

In a surprising turn, “The End,” a film from 2024 that you might not have come across yet, could well be the most peculiar movie of its year. This narrative piece is the work of documentary filmmaker Joshua Oppenheimer. It tells the story of a wealthy family – Mother (Tilda Swinton), Father (Michael Shannon), and Son (George MacKay) – living in a luxurious bunker post-apocalypse, where Earth has become uninhabitable. The introduction of Girl (Moses Ingram) disrupts their lives, leading to emotional upheaval that is primarily conveyed through songs sung against the backdrop of salt mines. Critics praised its lofty aspirations, but many felt “The End” was overindulgent and in need of more compelling original music, earning it a 54% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Without a doubt, it’s clear that the film “The End” is overly lengthy, but it’s equally undeniable that it’s an intriguingly unique blend that lingers in your mind. A significant part of its appeal lies in the exceptionally detailed portrayal by George MacKay. This actor’s physical prowess in the musical sequences is truly remarkable, as is his representation of Son, a 20-year-old who has lived only among his parents and their wealthy circle for decades, shown brilliantly as a stunned individual.

In the grimmest scenes of “The End,” there’s a powerful resonance. This film portrays affluent individuals causing planetary devastation, who then appear as victims struggling with truth embodied by a character named Girl. The unexpected inclusion of musical numbers by these characters, spearheaded by Oppenheimer, is refreshingly unselfconscious. “The End” might not appeal to all viewers, and it’s debatable whether it succeeds entirely. Yet, this bold portrayal of the apocalypse merits more recognition and acclaim than it has received so far.

Quest for Camelot

In many aspects, “Quest for Camelot” could be seen as a 1990s attempt by another studio to replicate Disney Animation’s fairy tale musical magic outside of Disney. With a rating of just 41% on Rotten Tomatoes, it seems that the film tried too hard to create characters like Genie or Timon & Pumbaa, and its character designs aren’t particularly innovative. However, where other 90s Disney imitations like “A Troll in Central Park” or “The Swan Princess” fell short, “Quest for Camelot” boasts a strong soundtrack. Interestingly, given that the musical numbers were added towards the end of production, there are several catchy tunes included. The lead character Garrett (played by Cary Elwes) has an impressive ballad called “I Stand Alone”, while the comedic two-headed dragon Devon (Eric Idle) and Cornwall (Don Rickles) share a zany tune titled “If I Didn’t Have You” that stands out in the film’s animation.

The Prayer,” which is famously sung by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli, has gained immense popularity and a life of its own, far surpassing its original appearance in the movie “Quest for Camelot.” Even though Disney sometimes produces lackluster soundtracks, like some songs from “Pocahontas,” during its 90s heyday, the musical numbers in “Quest for Camelot” stand out. Although the film itself has derivative and loud aspects, the music alone makes it an engaging watch, one that might even be considered superior to its critical ratings suggest.

The Phantom of the Opera

In 1997, director Joel Schumacher’s interpretation of Batman in “Batman & Robin” was met with widespread criticism from fans. Similarly, his 2004 adaptation of “The Phantom of the Opera” received a cold reception upon release, earning a poor rating of 33% on Rotten Tomatoes. Longtime followers of the show were dismayed by how Schumacher’s adaptation twisted and undermined its source material, with many finding Gerard Butler’s casting inappropriate for his role. This criticism significantly impacted Butler’s career, causing him to avoid musical films thereafter. However, much like “Batman & Robin,” “The Phantom of the Opera” has cultivated a dedicated fanbase who defend this version of the story.

For the past two decades, a new audience has become accustomed to Gerard Schumacher’s adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera”. This contrasts sharply with 2004 when people were only familiar with the original musical, and Schumacher’s movie seemed like a critique of it. For these younger fans, the film’s lavish design, romantic scenes, and powerful emotional displays have been impossible to resist. Schumacher’s unique approach to filmmaking initially alienated moviegoers at the start of the 21st century. However, over time, his daring vision for “The Phantom of the Opera” has earned a devoted following who would eagerly describe it as impressive, even if it features Butler singing musical numbers.

Burlesque

In November 2010, Christina Aguilera and Cher teamed up for the film “Burlesque.” This movie tells the tale of a small-town Iowa waitress, portrayed by Aguilera, who aspires to shine on stage at a seedy yet glamorous burlesque club run by the legendary character played by Cher. To further appeal to audiences with a preference for queer themes, this musical boasted Kristen Bell, Stanley Tucci, and an array of flashy, extravagant outfits. Upon its release, “Burlesque” was heavily criticized as its storyline seemed like recycled plots from mid-20th century musical films. The dialogue, supporting performances, and many aspects of the movie were also widely panned. However, in spite of these harsh reviews — it currently holds a 37% rating on Rotten Tomatoes — “Burlesque” has persisted as a cult classic.

2020 marked the 10th anniversary of the release of Burlesque, and as a die-hard fan looking back, I can see why it’s garnered a new appreciation. While some older film critics might have found its plotlines reminiscent of the past in 2010, for younger viewers discovering it through streaming and home video in the 2010s, the movie was an entirely fresh experience. The lavish musical sequences and over-the-top melodrama resonated with many, contributing to its growing fanbase. Add to that the emotional bond people have formed rewatching it at raucous revival screenings, and you’ve got a recipe for enduring popularity. To top it off, the deep affection many have for its two leading ladies has added layers of cultural significance to Burlesque, far beyond its initial less-than-favorable reviews.

Across the Universe

As a fan who deeply appreciates The Beatles’ timeless wisdom that “All You Need is Love,” I must admit that my feelings about Julie Taymor’s 2007 film, “Across the Universe,” were not entirely aligned with this sentiment. Despite being inundated with tunes by the Fab Four, critics found it wanting for more than just nostalgia and familiar melodies. Criticisms leveled at the movie included a lack of narrative coherence, overly lengthy runtime, and underdeveloped characters – issues that were hard to ignore, as evidenced by its 53% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Still, it’s fascinating how something so criticized can become cherished for others. The film, in my opinion, is more about captivating visuals than character development. This very quality that critics disliked is what has transformed “Across the Universe” into a beloved musical experience for many fans like me.

A movie like “Across the Universe,” which heavily emphasizes emotion and trippy visuals, may not appeal to those who prefer a more conventional three-act structure. Nevertheless, this unique blend of Taymor’s cinematic style has become a cherished gem for numerous viewers, much like the unusual Beatles songs were in 1960s pop culture. Moreover, the film boasts an exceptional soundtrack featuring well-known tracks that are brilliantly brought to life with Taymor’s creative vision. While critics might have seen “Across the Universe” as an unconventional mixture, for many viewers, its use of familiar pop culture and departure from traditional narrative elements is more of a strength than a weakness.

Camp Rock

Initially, “Camp Rock” struggled to break free from the influence of its predecessor, “High School Musical,” when it was first broadcast on the Disney Channel. Critics perceived it as a copycat of the latter due to its connection with Demi Lovato and the Jonas Brothers. This collaboration, undoubtedly orchestrated in a Disney marketing meeting, aimed to replicate the success of the 2006 Disney Channel Original Movie starring Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens.

However, as time passed, “Camp Rock” has gained a loyal fanbase, demonstrating that it offers more than just being a substitute when “High School Musical” is unavailable. The film has proven to have its own unique charm and value, making it worthwhile for viewers to give it a chance.

1. One point to note is that the intentionally over-the-top performances have sparked numerous memes, demonstrating the strong impact these artists and writers had by infusing their work with sincere, cynicism-free passion.

2. Furthermore, the soundtrack has gained iconic status among a generation of film music enthusiasts. “This is Me” in particular has grown in popularity over time, recognized as an outstanding musical number that exceeds expectations even beyond Disney Channel Original Movie standards. Additionally, the whimsical and bubbly visual style, though not for everyone’s liking, can serve as a refreshing escape from reality for many viewers.

3. Admittedly, the appeal of “Camp Rock” may resonate more strongly with Jones Brothers fans, but its unique groove sets it apart as more than just a duplicate of “High School Musical”, despite its mediocre 50% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Can’t Stop the Music

If you found “Xanadu” to symbolize a specific time period, prepare yourself for “Can’t Stop the Music.” Directed by Nancy Walker, this movie combined musical cinema with the disco era, primarily focusing on a fictional account of the Village People, where they rise as underdogs and disprove doubting music executives about their catchy tunes. Interestingly, it was released in 1980, a time when disco was already declining, making it feel quite outdated even back then. As such, one can only imagine how foreign it might seem in today’s world. Despite being panned by critics upon release, its unique blend of glittery disco-inspired absurdity has garnered a dedicated fanbase who overlook its 22% Rotten Tomatoes rating and continue to cherish it.

Originally intended for mainstream success like “Grease” and “The Sound of Music,” “Can’t Stop the Music” has found a unique place in the realm of cult cinema instead. Fans of campy films adore its outrageously funny aspects, such as the catchy pop songs sung by muscle-bound men in minimal clothing during musical sequences. The portrayal of a band as comical as the Village People fighting against societal norms adds to its quirky allure, especially for those who enjoy late-night movie viewing. In essence, “Can’t Stop the Music” may have failed in its initial goal, but it’s far from an ordinary flop!

The Producers

There are times when being a remake can bring more difficulties than advantages. For instance, consider the 2005 musical comedy “The Producers,” which was not only an adaptation of a Broadway play but also a reimagining of Mel Brooks’ 1968 film starring Gene Wilder. The film featuring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick had the burden of a significant cultural legacy to meet, and most reviews suggested it fell short of that prestigious lineage, earning a 51% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics often felt that this musical did not fully capitalize on the medium of film; instead, they perceived it as too similar to a stage production. Yet, in the years since “The Producers” presented audiences with what could be considered the worst possible in-universe musical, a fanbase has emerged that has learned to value the project for its unique qualities, rather than judging it based on its connection to the original Broadway play or the acclaimed movie.

The main reason that the new “Producers” movie has captivated so many people who find it “awesome” is the spellbinding dynamic between Lane and Broderick. They’ve worked together for such a long time that their effortlessly natural comedic chemistry simply pops on screen. Additionally, it’s always entertaining to watch Lane and Broderick push themselves to the limit as despicable masterminds. Noteworthy supporting performances from a host of talented comedic legends like Will Ferrell have also contributed to “The Producers” gaining contemporary supporters. Despite not being successful in 2005, “The Producers” has found a place in the hearts of many.

Cats

In simpler terms, “Cats” was an unprecedented cinematic trainwreck in the world of musicals, and even the original lyricist Andrew Lloyd Webber found it amusingly disappointing. The film, directed by Tom Hooper, seems to have missed every mark. From the bizarre fusion of human faces onto digitally created feline bodies, to the somber settings lacking color or vibrancy, to the cast including stars like Judi Dench and Jason Derulo singing about milk and paws. There was no specific cause for “Cats” failing at the box office, nor a single flaw that led to its negative critical response. Ironically, it’s these multiple mishaps that make “Cats” so captivating to watch.

Don’t let its failure fool you; ‘Cats’ offers a peculiar blend of entertainment that’s oddly captivating, like a train wreck you can’t look away from. Despite some questionable choices, such as Rebel Wilson shedding her skin like a suit or Ray Winstone harmonizing as a gritty dock cat, it presents scenes you won’t find in any other movie musical. ‘Cats’ is an extravagant display of madness, a pricey catastrophe that stands out among the usual flops like ‘Gigli’ and ‘The Flash.’ While it wasn’t meant to be, ‘Cats’ is the stuff of both cinematic nightmares and memorable movie nights with friends.

2025-02-26 15:31