These 10 Movies Have Awful Rotten Tomatoes Scores, But I Love Them Anyway

Some movies get terrible reviews but still win our hearts. Rotten Tomatoes scores can be harsh, yet certain films shine through the criticism with charm, nostalgia, or pure fun. Critics might focus on flaws like weak plots or cheesy dialogue, but fans often see something special—whether it’s a unique vibe, memorable characters, or just a good time.

This list celebrates 10 movies that critics slammed but I can’t stop loving. From campy action to heartfelt comedies, these films prove that a low score doesn’t always mean a bad movie. Let’s dive into why these underdog flicks deserve a second chance.

‘Hudson Hawk’ (1991)

Critics trashed ‘Hudson Hawk’ for its messy plot and over-the-top humor, giving it a measly 31% on Rotten Tomatoes. The story of a cat burglar forced into a wild heist filled with bizarre characters and slapstick gags didn’t click with reviewers who called it chaotic and unfocused.

But I love its quirky energy and Bruce Willis’ charm as the wise-cracking thief. The mix of action, comedy, and absurd moments—like singing during heists—makes it a fun, unpretentious ride that doesn’t take itself seriously.

‘The Postman’ (1997)

With a 14% Rotten Tomatoes score, ‘The Postman’ was slammed for its long runtime and overly sentimental tone. Critics found Kevin Costner’s post-apocalyptic tale of a drifter delivering hope through mail overly ambitious and poorly paced.

I’m hooked by its heartfelt story and epic scope, though. Costner’s passion shines through, and the idea of rebuilding society with something as simple as letters feels inspiring, even if it’s a bit rough around the edges.

‘Catwoman’ (2004)

‘Catwoman’ clawed its way to a dismal 9% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics hating its campy style and weak storyline about a shy artist turned feline vigilante. They called it a messy, over-the-top flop that failed to capture the comic book spirit.

I can’t resist its bold, unapologetic vibe and Halle Berry’s fierce performance. It leans hard into its campy aesthetic, and the sleek action scenes make it a guilty pleasure that’s way more fun than its score suggests.

‘A Cinderella Story’ (2004)

This teen rom-com scored a brutal 11% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics bashing its predictable plot and cheesy dialogue. They saw the modern Cinderella tale starring Hilary Duff as a shallow rehash of a classic story with little depth.

I love its nostalgic charm and feel-good energy, though. Duff and Chad Michael Murray’s chemistry, plus Jennifer Coolidge’s hilarious stepmother, make it a cozy, heartwarming watch that hits all the right spots for a lighthearted escape.

‘Sucker Punch’ (2011)

‘Sucker Punch’ got a 22% Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics slamming its thin plot and over-stylized visuals. They called Zack Snyder’s tale of a girl escaping a mental asylum through fantasy worlds confusing and lacking substance.

I’m drawn to its bold visuals and layered themes about trauma and empowerment. The action-packed dream sequences and killer soundtrack make it a thrilling, underrated gem that deserves more love for its ambition.

‘John Carter’ (2012)

Critics gave ‘John Carter’ a 52% on Rotten Tomatoes, calling it a bloated sci-fi mess with a confusing plot. The story of a Civil War veteran transported to Mars didn’t impress with its pacing or overstuffed narrative.

I adore its epic world-building and adventurous spirit. The sweeping visuals, intense battles, and John Carter’s reluctant heroism make it a fun, underappreciated sci-fi romp that feels ahead of its time.

‘Cruel Intentions’ (1999)

With a 54% Rotten Tomatoes score, ‘Cruel Intentions’ was criticized for its sleazy take on rich teens playing manipulative games. Reviewers found the modern spin on Dangerous Liaisons too melodramatic and morally questionable.

I can’t get enough of its twisted drama and sharp dialogue. Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe’s deliciously evil performances, plus that iconic ending, make it a captivating guilty pleasure that’s aged like fine wine.

‘Hook’ (1991)

‘Hook’ sits at 31% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics calling it a bloated, overly sentimental take on Peter Pan. They felt Steven Spielberg’s story of an adult Peter returning to Neverland lacked the magic of the original tale.

I’m charmed by its whimsical heart and Robin Williams’ joyful performance. The colorful sets, fun pirate battles, and emotional family themes make it a nostalgic favorite that still sparks my imagination.

‘The Butterfly Effect’ (2004)

This time-travel thriller scored a 34% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics knocking its dark tone and convoluted plot. They found Ashton Kutcher’s attempt to change the past through memory jumps messy and overly grim.

I love its intense emotional stakes and mind-bending concept. Kutcher’s surprisingly solid performance and the film’s bold exploration of consequences make it a gripping, underrated sci-fi drama that sticks with you.

‘Freddy vs. Jason’ (2003)

‘Freddy vs. Jason’ slashed its way to a 41% Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics dismissing it as a gory, silly clash of horror icons. They saw the battle between Nightmare on Elm Street’s Freddy and Friday the 13th’s Jason as fan service with little depth.

I’m all in for its over-the-top carnage and playful horror vibes. The epic showdown delivers exactly what fans wanted—bloody, chaotic fun with two legendary killers stealing the show.

What’s your favorite movie that critics got wrong? Share it in the comments and let’s celebrate the underdogs together!