35 Worst Acting Performances of All Time

Sometimes, even the biggest stars can stumble, delivering performances that leave audiences cringing or confused. Bad acting can turn a promising project into a memorable flop, whether it’s wooden delivery, misplaced accents, or over-the-top choices that miss the mark.

I’ve compiled a list of 35 acting performances that stand out for all the wrong reasons, spanning movies and TV shows. From cult classics to box-office bombs, these moments range from unintentionally hilarious to painfully awkward, showcasing how even talented actors can falter.

‘The Room’ (2003) – Tommy Wiseau

Tommy Wiseau’s turn as Johnny in ‘The Room’ is a masterclass in bizarre acting. His strange accent, odd line delivery, and unnatural reactions make every scene feel like an alien’s attempt at human emotion.

The film’s cult status stems from its sheer absurdity, with lines like ‘You’re tearing me apart, Lisa!’ becoming iconic for their awkward intensity. Wiseau’s performance is so offbeat it’s almost performance art, cementing the movie as a legendary disaster.

‘Jack and Jill’ (2011) – Adam Sandler

Adam Sandler plays both Jack and his twin sister Jill in ‘Jack and Jill’, and neither role works. His portrayal of Jill, in particular, relies on shrill shouting and crude humor that feels forced and unfunny.

Sandler’s Jack is just as flat, with visible boredom in every scene. The film’s Razzie sweep, including Worst Actor and Worst Actress for Sandler, proves how this dual role misfired spectacularly.

‘Battlefield Earth’ (2000) – John Travolta

John Travolta’s hammy performance as Terl, a giant alien in ‘Battlefield Earth’, is a wild misstep. His over-the-top delivery and exaggerated mannerisms turn a sci-fi epic into unintentional comedy.

The film’s dismal reception, with critics slamming its nonsensical plot and Travolta’s theatrics, earned him a well-deserved Razzie. It’s a passion project that crashed hard, leaving Travolta’s acting as a standout flaw.

‘Gigli’ (2003) – Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez’s role as Ricki, a tough-talking gangster in ‘Gigli’, falls flat with cartoonish posturing. Her attempt at gritty charm feels like a parody, especially in the infamous ‘turkey time’ scene.

The chemistry with co-star Ben Affleck is nonexistent, making their romance cringe-worthy. The film’s 6% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects how Lopez’s performance couldn’t salvage the messy script.

‘The Godfather Part III’ (1990) – Sofia Coppola

Sofia Coppola’s casting as Mary Corleone in ‘The Godfather Part III’ was a bold choice, but her wooden delivery didn’t match the film’s heavy drama. Critics panned her lack of emotional depth compared to the stellar cast.

While Sofia later shone as a director, her acting here felt stiff and unprepared. The backlash was harsh, but it didn’t define her remarkable career behind the camera.

‘Swept Away’ (2002) – Madonna

Madonna’s role as a spoiled socialite in ‘Swept Away’ lacks any spark or believability. Her flat delivery and zero chemistry with co-star Adriano Giannini make the romance feel forced and awkward.

The film, a remake of a 1974 classic, bombed with a 5% Rotten Tomatoes score. Madonna’s Razzie for Worst Actress was no surprise, as her performance felt painfully self-indulgent.

‘Catwoman’ (2004) – Halle Berry

Halle Berry’s turn as the titular hero in ‘Catwoman’ is a rare low for the Oscar winner. Her exaggerated movements and forced sass clash with the film’s weak script, making it hard to take seriously.

Berry accepted her Razzie with humor, admitting the role needed better support. The movie’s campy tone didn’t help, but her performance still stands out as a misfire.

‘The Wicker Man’ (2006) – Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage’s wild performance as Edward Malus in ‘The Wicker Man’ is a rollercoaster of overacting. His frenzied shouting, especially in the infamous ‘Not the bees!’ scene, turns horror into comedy.

The film’s poor direction didn’t give Cage much to work with, but his unrestrained energy pushes it into absurdity. It’s a cult favorite now, largely because of his bizarre choices.

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ (2015) – Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan

Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan’s performances in ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ lack the chemistry needed for a steamy romance. Johnson’s lip-biting and whispered lines feel repetitive, while Dornan’s Christian Grey is stiff and detached.

Their discomfort is palpable, especially in intimate scenes, and press tours showed their real-life tension. Despite the film’s box-office success, their acting remains a weak link.

‘Abduction’ (2011) – Taylor Lautner

Taylor Lautner’s lead role in ‘Abduction’ aimed to break him out of ‘Twilight’, but his limited range shines through. His attempt at emotional depth, especially in a scene mourning his parents, feels forced and unconvincing.

The action thriller needed a stronger anchor, and Lautner’s flat delivery didn’t deliver. Critics noted his struggle, and the film quickly faded from memory.

‘Showgirls’ (1995) – Elizabeth Berkley

Elizabeth Berkley’s over-the-top performance as Nomi Malone in ‘Showgirls’ is a whirlwind of exaggerated gestures. Her aggressive line delivery, like stabbing a straw into a drink, turns drama into camp.

The film’s provocative tone didn’t help, but Berkley’s lack of subtlety made scenes laughable. Despite its cult status, her acting remains a polarizing highlight of the flop.

‘After Earth’ (2013) – Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith’s role as Kitai Raige in ‘After Earth’ feels stiff and unpolished. His monotone delivery and lack of emotional range make it hard to connect with his character’s survival journey.

Paired with a weak script and Will Smith’s equally flat performance, Jaden’s acting couldn’t carry the sci-fi flop. Critics were harsh, and the film bombed at the box office.

‘The Hottie & The Nottie’ (2008) – Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton’s attempt at romantic comedy in ‘The Hottie and the Nottie’ is painfully awkward. Her wooden delivery as Cristabel lacks charm, making the film’s thin plot even harder to stomach.

Hilton’s reality TV persona didn’t translate to acting, and critics shredded the movie. With a 4% Rotten Tomatoes score, her performance is a low point in her brief film career.

‘Mommie Dearest’ (1981) – Faye Dunaway

Faye Dunaway’s portrayal of Joan Crawford in ‘Mommie Dearest’ swings wildly into camp. Her intense, scenery-chewing delivery turns a dramatic biopic into an overblown melodrama.

The film’s cult following loves its exaggerated moments, like the ‘No wire hangers!’ scene, but Dunaway’s performance overshadows the story. She shared a Razzie for Worst Actress, reflecting its divisive impact.

‘Glitter’ (2001) – Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s lead role as Billie Frank in ‘Glitter’ lacks the emotional depth needed for a music drama. Her stiff delivery and lack of screen presence make the rags-to-riches tale feel flat.

The film’s poor script didn’t help, but Carey’s inexperience as an actress was clear. She later redeemed herself in ‘Precious’, but ‘Glitter’ remains a notorious misstep.

‘Diana’ (2013) – Naomi Watts

Naomi Watts’ portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Diana’ misses the mark despite her talent. Her performance feels stiff, failing to capture Diana’s warmth and complexity.

The biopic’s weak script and 7% Rotten Tomatoes score didn’t help, but Watts’ inability to embody the iconic figure drew heavy criticism. It’s a rare low for the acclaimed actress.

‘Cloud Atlas’ (2012) – Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks tackles six roles in ‘Cloud Atlas’, but his turn as gangster Dermot Hoggins is a jarring misfire. His muddled accent and overdone tough-guy act feel out of place in the ambitious epic.

While Hanks shines in other roles, this one stands out for its awkward execution. The film’s mixed reception didn’t hinge on him, but this performance is a weak spot.

‘Super Mario Bros.’ (1993) – Dennis Hopper

Dennis Hopper’s manic portrayal of King Koopa in ‘Super Mario Bros.’ is wildly out of sync with the film’s tone. His cartoonish villainy feels more silly than menacing, clashing with the sci-fi setting.

The movie’s chaotic production didn’t help, but Hopper’s over-the-top delivery made it worse. Critics panned the film, and his performance remains a bizarre footnote.

‘Batman & Robin’ (1997) – Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Mr. Freeze in ‘Batman & Robin’ leans too heavily on cheesy one-liners. His stiff delivery and lack of emotional depth make the villain feel like a caricature.

The film’s campy tone was a deliberate choice, but Schwarzenegger’s performance didn’t elevate it. His Razzie win for Worst Supporting Actor sums up the icy reception.

‘Mortdecai’ (2015) – Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp’s eccentric art dealer in ‘Mordecai’ feels like a tired retread of his quirky roles. His exaggerated mannerisms and odd accent fail to land any laughs in the comedy flop.

The film’s convoluted plot didn’t help, but Depp’s over-the-top performance drew heavy fire. Critics called it a low point in his otherwise stellar career.

‘Half Past Dead’ (2002) – Steven Seagal

Steven Seagal’s performance in ‘Half Past Dead’ is as lifeless as the title suggests. His rushed line delivery and lack of chemistry with co-star Ja Rule make the action flick forgettable.

Seagal’s usual stoic charm feels phoned-in, with uninspired fight scenes to match. The film’s poor reception highlighted his diminishing star power at the time.

‘Saving Christmas’ (2014) – Kirk Cameron

Kirk Cameron’s lead role in ‘Saving Christmas’ is painfully earnest but lacks depth. His overly cheerful delivery feels forced, failing to sell the film’s heavy-handed message.

The low-budget holiday movie was panned for its preachy tone, and Cameron’s acting didn’t help. With a 0% Rotten Tomatoes score, it’s a career low point.

‘Transformers’ (2007-2009) – Megan Fox

Megan Fox’s performances in the ‘Transformers’ films prioritize style over substance. Her wooden delivery as Mikaela Banes lacks emotional weight, making her scenes feel hollow.

The films’ massive success relied on visuals, not acting, and Fox’s limited range was noticeable. Critics often pointed to her as a weak link in the blockbuster franchise.

‘Holmes & Watson’ (2018) – Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly

Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly’s comedic pairing in ‘Holmes & Watson’ falls flat. Their over-the-top slapstick and forced chemistry fail to capture the charm of their past collaborations.

The film’s lazy humor and poor script didn’t help, earning it a 10% Rotten Tomatoes score. Both actors’ exaggerated performances couldn’t salvage the unfunny mess.

‘Crossroads’ (2002) – Britney Spears

Britney Spears’ debut as Lucy in ‘Crossroads’ is a stiff attempt at acting. Her lack of experience shows in flat line readings and awkward emotional scenes.

The coming-of-age drama aimed to capitalize on her pop stardom, but it flopped. Spears’ performance, while earnest, couldn’t carry the predictable story.

‘The Dark Tower’ (2017) – Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey’s villainous Man in Black in ‘The Dark Tower’ feels oddly subdued. His usually magnetic presence is dulled by a lackluster script and minimal character depth.

The film’s rushed adaptation of Stephen King’s epic disappointed fans, and McConaughey’s performance didn’t stand out. It’s a rare miss for the Oscar winner.

‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ (1992) – Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves’ Jonathan Harker in ‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ struggles with a shaky British accent. His stiff delivery contrasts sharply with the film’s gothic intensity, pulling focus from the stellar cast.

Director Francis Ford Coppola later admitted the casting was a misstep. Reeves’ charm shines elsewhere, but this role remains a weak spot in his career.

‘Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones’ (2002) – Hayden Christensen

Hayden Christensen’s Anakin Skywalker in ‘Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones’ feels wooden and forced. His attempt at portraying a tormented Jedi lacks the emotional nuance needed for the iconic role.

The clunky dialogue didn’t help, but Christensen’s delivery drew heavy criticism. Despite his return in later projects, this performance remains a sore point for fans.

‘The Twilight Saga’ (2008-2012) – Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart’s Bella Swan in ‘The Twilight Saga’ is defined by a single, blank expression. Her monotone delivery and limited range make the romance feel lifeless, despite the franchise’s massive popularity.

Stewart later proved her talent in indie films, but her Twilight years were a low point. The role’s demands didn’t play to her strengths, leaving fans divided.

‘Dungeons & Dragons’ (2000) – Jeremy Irons

Jeremy Irons’ over-the-top villain in ‘Dungeons & Dragons’ is a chaotic mess of shouting and wild expressions. His theatrical performance feels out of place in the poorly made fantasy flop.

Irons’ talent is undeniable, but this role leans too hard into camp. The film’s 10% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects its failure, with Irons’ acting a standout flaw.

‘Suicide Squad’ (2016) – Jared Leto

Jared Leto’s Joker in ‘Suicide Squad’ is a jarring mix of method acting and overdone quirks. His creepy delivery and odd choices, like sending co-stars bizarre gifts, didn’t translate to a compelling villain.

Most of his scenes were cut, but what remained felt forced and unconvincing. Critics and fans agreed it was a weak take on the iconic character.

‘Elvis’ (2022) – Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Colonel Tom Parker in ‘Elvis’ is a rare misstep. His cartoonish accent and over-the-top villainy clash with the film’s grounded tone, overshadowing Austin Butler’s stellar Elvis.

The performance earned Hanks a Razzie for Worst Supporting Actor. Despite the film’s success, his exaggerated choices didn’t quite fit the biopic’s vision.

‘Into the Woods’ (2014) – Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep’s Witch in ‘Into the Woods’ leans too heavily into hamminess. Her exaggerated delivery, especially in the musical’s rap section, feels jarring compared to her usually flawless work.

The Disney adaptation dulled the musical’s edge, and Streep’s over-the-top approach didn’t help. It’s a surprising low for an actress known for perfection.

‘Dolittle’ (2020) – Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr.’s take on Dr. Dolittle is a charmless slog. His odd accent and lack of energy make the family adventure feel flat, despite his usual charisma.

The film’s messy production and weak script didn’t help, earning it poor reviews. Downey’s performance feels like a paycheck role, far from his Iron Man highs.

‘Hillbilly Elegy’ (2020) – Glenn Close

Glenn Close’s portrayal of Mamaw in ‘Hillbilly Elegy’ is an overdone caricature. Her exaggerated accent and mannerisms turn a complex character into a stereotype, undermining the film’s drama.

Despite an Oscar nomination, critics found her performance indulgent. The film’s patronizing tone didn’t help, making Close’s work a rare miss in her stellar career.

Which acting performance do you think deserves a spot on this list, or did I miss a notorious flop? Drop your thoughts in the comments!