18 Guilty Pleasure Movies We Can’t Believe We Once Adored

Alex Brown

It’s always interesting to see how our tastes in movies change over time. Maybe it’s that now we know better, or maybe it’s just that we are more discerning in our choices. Either way, there’s no denying that there are some films we used to love that we can’t help but cringe at now. Let’s look at some of those movies we thought were the greatest back in the day but now we regret loving so much.

Nerds No More: Revenge of the Nerds

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

A classic 80s underdog story, “Revenge of the Nerds” centered around a group of geeks navigating the tumultuous waters of college life. However, watching it today reveals some troubling themes like stereotypes, harassment, and cringe-worthy attempts at humor. While we used to root for the nerds’ victory over bullies, ignoring these outdated and problematic aspects is hard.

BB Gun Blunder: A Christmas Story

Photo Credit: MGM.

“A Christmas Story,” a holiday favorite, chronicles young Ralphie’s quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. Sadly, our rose-tinted glasses now reveal a film tainted by racism, bullying, and an idealized portrayal of childhood. The humorous antics and memorable lines may still bring a smile, but these glaring issues are impossible to ignore.

Teenage Turmoil: Superbad

Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures.

“Superbad” was the ultimate coming-of-age comedy, depicting the wild escapades of high school friends Seth, Evan, and Fogell. The laughs came easy, and the ridiculous antics were hilariously relatable. Yet, revisiting this comedy exposes a series of insensitive jokes, questionable decisions, and a lack of awareness about their consequences. Our mature perspective makes it harder to enjoy without reservations.

Colliding Cringe: Crash

Photo Credit: Lionsgate.

“Crash” wove an intricate tapestry of interconnected lives, focusing on racism and prejudice in LA. This star-studded drama impressed us with its powerful storytelling and messages about tolerance. However, a critical re-watch reveals a heavy-handed approach to complex issues and a shallow exploration of race. What once seemed profound now feels simplified and one-dimensional.

Sideline Savior: The Blind Side

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

“The Blind Side” once warmed our hearts with its inspiring tale of a wealthy family taking in a homeless African American teen, Michael Oher, who eventually becomes an NFL star. But recent developments cast a shadow over the film. Oher petitioned to legally terminate his relationship with the Tuohys because he claimed he was never compensated for the film. This revelation taints our once-favorable view of the film, turning it into a regrettable chapter in Oher’s life.

Shallow Shift: Shallow Hal

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

Jack Black’s comedy “Shallow Hal” gave us a character who saw people for their inner beauty, thanks to a hypnosis session. The humor was irresistible, and the quirky romance endearing. However, upon reflection, the body-shaming humor and fat jokes that fueled the laughs feel more cringe-worthy than funny.

Modern Missteps: Thoroughly Modern Millie

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

The 1967 musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie” was a delightful romp through the Roaring Twenties, featuring Julie Andrews’ charming performance. We loved the catchy songs and spirited atmosphere. Yet, the film’s insensitive portrayal of Asian characters and outdated gender politics overshadow its once-appealing charm.

Idol Illusion: From Justin to Kelly

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

The beachy romance between American Idol contestants Justin Guarini and Kelly Clarkson captivated us with its light-hearted vibe and toe-tapping tunes. We couldn’t get enough of their chemistry and carefree moments. Unfortunately, the cringe-worthy acting, thin plot, and questionable fashion choices now overshadow the fun.

Detective Dilemma: Ace Ventura: Pet Detective

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

Jim Carrey’s zany portrayal of the quirky pet detective Ace Ventura had us in stitches. His outlandish humor and absurd antics were comedy gold. However, today’s perspective highlights the transphobic jokes and crude portrayal of mental health, making us regret our previous love for the film.

Soulful Slip-up: Soul Man

Photo Credit: New World Pictures.

“Soul Man” offered a unique twist as law student Mark pretends to be black to secure a scholarship. We enjoyed the humor and unconventional storyline. Nevertheless, the blatant racial stereotypes and offensive concept of a white man masquerading as black make it hard to appreciate the film today.

Tiffany’s Troubles: Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly remains iconic, and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” had us swept up in its enchanting romance and elegant style. Unfortunately, we now cringe at the blatantly racist portrayal of Mr. Yunioshi and the harmful stereotypes it encourages. It’s just not right.

Translation Tangle: Lost in Translation

Photo Credit: Focus Features.

“Lost in Translation” moved us with its tale of two lonely souls finding solace in each other’s company. The subtle humor and emotional depth were captivating. Sadly, a closer look reveals a troubling portrayal of Japanese culture and people, which makes it hard to enjoy without reservations.

Raw Regret: Raw

Photo Credit: Rogue International.

“Raw” intrigued us with its unique story of a vegetarian veterinary student developing a taste for meat. The intensity and originality were unmatched. However, the way the film shows cannibalism in a positive light and some of the shocking scenes now make us question our initial fascination with the film.

Short-Circuited Sympathy: Short Circuit

Photo Credit: Columbia/TriStar.

Number 5, the adorable robot that gained self-awareness, won our hearts in “Short Circuit.” The quirky storyline and charming characters were irresistible. Unfortunately, the cultural appropriation and cringe-worthy portrayal of Indian characters now make us regret our previous love for this movie.

Wedding Woes: My Best Friend’s Wedding

Photo Credit: TriStar Pictures.

Julia Roberts had us laughing and sighing as Julianne, the determined best friend trying to sabotage a wedding. The comedic moments and romantic tension kept us engaged. Regrettably, our current perspective reveals the film’s toxic portrayal of female friendships and problematic behavior, making it hard to enjoy as we once did.

Guru Gaffe: The Love Guru

Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Mike Myers had us laughing with his outrageous portrayal of Guru Pitka in “The Love Guru.” The silliness and absurdity were too much fun to resist. However, we now regret the cultural appropriation and offensive depiction of Eastern spirituality that fueled the laughs. In today’s world, this just wouldn’t be acceptable.

Booked Wrong: Green Book

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

“Green Book” impressed with its heartwarming portrayal of the friendship between a black pianist and a white bouncer touring the Deep South. The chemistry between the leads was undeniable. Sadly, we now recognize the film’s “white savior” narrative and the overly simplistic view of racism that makes it harder to appreciate.

Internship Injustice: The Internship

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

“The Internship” brought the comedic chemistry of Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson to the screen as middle-aged interns at Google. We laughed at their antics and loved the message about embracing change. Unfortunately, the ageist jokes and shallow portrayal of tech culture now tarnish our fond memories.

20 Fictional Characters You Might Not Know Are Based On Real People

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

Many fictional characters draw inspiration from real individuals, sometimes subtly and other times more explicitly, such as when a character shares the name of their real-life counterpart. In instances where only a few physical traits are borrowed directly from a person, the connection can be challenging to discern. The revelation that the following characters are based on actual individuals may come as a surprise. 20 Fictional Characters You Might Not Know Are Based On Real People

The 10 Movie Blockbusters That Surpassed $500 Million – Did Your Favorites Make The Cut?

Image Credit: Walt Disney Pictures

These 10 films, surpassing the $500 million mark at the box office, not only achieved remarkable financial success but also played a pivotal role in propelling their stars into the realm of fortunes. The 10 Movie Blockbusters That Surpassed $500 Million – Did Your Favorites Make The Cut?

90s Nostalgia: 10 Hidden Movie Treasures You’ve Let Slip Through the Cracks

Image Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

In an era where we enjoy unparalleled access to a vast array of films, there remain certain gems from the 90s that have slipped from our memories. To evoke a sense of nostalgia, we’ve curated a list below, aiming to rekindle some forgotten cinematic treasures from that time. 90s Nostalgia: 10 Hidden Movie Treasures You’ve Let Slip Through the Cracks

2024’S Most Anticipated Movies: Will 2024’S Most Anticipated Movies Thrill Or Disappoint?

Image Credit: Walt Disney Studios

As the year unfolds, viewers will be treated to thrilling action adventures, heartwarming animated tales, and intriguing sci-fi narratives. With returning favorites and exciting newcomers, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of cinematic exploration and entertainment for audiences around the world. 2024’S Most Anticipated Movies: Will 2024’S Most Anticipated Movies Thrill Or Disappoint?

Bridgerton Burnout? Try these 15 British Historical Dramas Instead

Image Credit: Mammoth Screen Masterpiece

Bridgerton may be all the rage, but there are plenty of other historical dramas out there that are just as captivating, if not more so. From epic period pieces to intimate character studies, these shows offer a rich and diverse look at the past. So if you’re looking for something new to binge-watch, be sure to check out these hidden gems. Bridgerton Burnout? Try these 15 British Historical Dramas Instead

Alex Brown
+ posts