In Hollywood, a single movie can either make or break a career. For some stars, a poorly received film can lead to a dramatic career downturn, overshadowing their previous successes. This list explores 20 such films that had a significant impact on the careers of once-famous actors. From miscast roles to unfortunate scripts, these movies became infamous for derailing the trajectories of their stars. Let’s delve into the details of these career-defining moments.
The Love Guru (2008) – Mike Myers
Mike Myers, once a comedic powerhouse, stumbled with ‘The Love Guru.’ Known for his roles in ‘Austin Powers,’ this film failed to capture the same magic. Myers portrayed an eccentric guru, but the humor fell flat, leading to a box-office disappointment. Critics panned the film’s reliance on cringe-worthy jokes and lackluster plot.
This misstep overshadowed Myers’ previous successes, causing a hiatus from major film roles. Despite his talent, ‘The Love Guru’ marked a notable downturn in his career. Did you know? Myers even admitted regretting the role, acknowledging its impact on his career trajectory.
Gigli (2003) – Ben Affleck
‘Gigli’ is often cited as one of Hollywood’s biggest flops. Starring Ben Affleck alongside Jennifer Lopez, the film was supposed to be a romantic comedy hit. However, it ended up being a critical and commercial disaster.
The film suffered from a weak script and poor direction, leading to negative reviews. Critics were harsh, and audiences stayed away. This film tarnished Affleck’s reputation at the time, overshadowing his previous successes. He later joked about its failure, but ‘Gigli’ undeniably marked a career low point. Interestingly, it became a cultural reference for cinematic failure.
Catwoman (2004) – Halle Berry
Halle Berry’s turn in ‘Catwoman’ was meant to be empowering. Instead, it became a cautionary tale in superhero cinema. Despite her Oscar-winning status, Berry couldn’t save this film from its fate.
‘Catwoman’ was criticized for its weak storyline and poor special effects. Berry’s portrayal was overshadowed by the film’s flaws, leading to a Razzie Award for Worst Actress. This role stalled her momentum in the industry. Despite the setback, she embraced the Razzie with humor, showing resilience.
Fun fact: Berry famously accepted the Razzie in person, showcasing her sense of humor.
Battlefield Earth (2000) – John Travolta
‘Battlefield Earth’ is known for its ambitious attempt at sci-fi, but it backfired spectacularly. John Travolta, a major star at the time, starred as an alien in this ill-fated project.
The film was universally panned for its storytelling, effects, and acting. Travolta’s involvement in this project was seen as a poor career choice, impacting his credibility. This infamous flop overshadowed his previous successes and became a running joke in Hollywood.
Did you know? The film’s failure was so memorable it won multiple Golden Raspberry Awards, including Worst Picture of the Decade.
The Postman (1997) – Kevin Costner
Post-apocalyptic tales can be thrilling, but ‘The Postman’ missed the mark. Kevin Costner starred and directed this film, hoping for a success similar to ‘Dances with Wolves.’ However, it failed to resonate with audiences.
The film’s lengthy runtime and lackluster plot led to negative reviews. Costner’s ambitious vision was criticized, overshadowing his previous accolades. This film became synonymous with box-office failures of the era.
Fun fact: Despite its initial failure, ‘The Postman’ gained a small cult following over the years.
Showgirls (1995) – Elizabeth Berkley
Elizabeth Berkley hoped ‘Showgirls’ would catapult her career. Instead, it became a notorious flop. Known for its risqué content, the film was criticized for its lack of depth and poor execution.
Berkley’s performance was overshadowed by the film’s controversies, impacting her career for years. Critics harshly reviewed her acting, and she struggled to find significant roles afterward. Despite this, ‘Showgirls’ later found a cult audience.
Interestingly, the film’s failure didn’t deter Berkley’s spirit. She continued to work in the industry, reinventing herself over time.
From Justin to Kelly (2003) – Kelly Clarkson
Fresh off her ‘American Idol’ win, Kelly Clarkson starred in ‘From Justin to Kelly.’ This beach musical was intended to capitalize on her newfound fame. However, it turned into a box-office misfire.
The film’s formulaic storyline and lackluster performances didn’t resonate with audiences. Critics were unforgiving, and Clarkson distanced herself from the project. Despite this setback, she focused on her music career, which continued to thrive.
Fun fact: Clarkson later confessed she was contractually obligated to do the film, jokingly calling it her biggest regret.
Waterworld (1995) – Kevin Costner
‘Waterworld’ was an ambitious project that turned into an infamous flop. Starring Kevin Costner, this film faced production issues and budget overruns, overshadowing its release.
The film’s storyline and execution failed to impress critics and audiences alike. Costner’s involvement was heavily scrutinized, impacting his career trajectory. Despite the challenges, ‘Waterworld’ eventually found a niche audience and became a cult classic.
Did you know? The film’s set was destroyed by a hurricane, contributing to its high production costs and troubled history.
Alexander (2004) – Colin Farrell
‘Alexander’ was a historical epic that missed the mark. Starring Colin Farrell, the film aimed to chronicle Alexander the Great’s life but struggled with execution.
Critics were divided, and the film’s lengthy runtime didn’t help its cause. Farrell’s portrayal was criticized, overshadowing his rising star status. This film marked a slump in his career, although he later rebounded with more diverse roles.
Fun fact: Director Oliver Stone released multiple versions, hoping to salvage its reputation, but the film remains a controversial entry in Farrell’s filmography.
Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997) – Sandra Bullock
‘Speed 2: Cruise Control’ was a sequel that didn’t live up to its predecessor. Sandra Bullock reprised her role, but the film fell short of expectations.
The lack of original co-star Keanu Reeves and a weaker plot contributed to its failure. Critics were unimpressed, leading to a slump in Bullock’s career. Despite this setback, she persevered and eventually reclaimed her status as a leading actress.
Did you know? Bullock later joked about the film, acknowledging it as a low point, yet it served as a learning experience for her.