19 Movies So Dull That Make Paint Drying Look Like a Thriller

Daniel Clarke

We’ve all been there – it’s a rainy day, you’re stuck indoors, and you’re browsing through the endless movie options available. With so many choices, knowing what’s worth your time is hard. Well, we’re here to save you from wasting your precious hours. Here are 18 movies so incredibly dull you might prefer to watch paint dry.

Meet Joe Black

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

In this movie, Brad Pitt plays the role of Death, who takes a holiday and falls in love with a young woman, played by Claire Forlani. The idea sounds intriguing on paper, but the execution falls flat. It drags on for a full three hours and is comprised mostly of tiresome conversations that hold no real interest.

The Midnight Sky

Photo Credit: Netflix.

This George Clooney-directed film features Clooney himself as a scientist trying to warn a returning spaceship crew about the Earth’s dire state. Although this post-apocalyptic space drama has moments of beauty, its plodding pace and often-convoluted plot confuse and underwhelm viewers.

The English Patient

Photo Credit: Miramax.

Adapted from Michael Ondaatje’s novel, this movie is an epic romance and drama set during World War II. It may have won nine Oscars, but its snail-paced story and 160-minute runtime make it a chore for viewers who expect the movie to get to the point already. While its cinematography is beautiful, the movie’s slow plot and overstuffed storyline make it a difficult watch.

Battlefield Earth

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

John Travolta stars in this sci-fi film based on L. Ron Hubbard’s novel. The film’s premise is interesting, revolving around an enslaved Earth rebelling against an alien race. However, the overuse of cliches, unconvincing dialogues, and poor special effects make it dull.

Sleep

Photo Credit: Andy Warhol.

Andy Warhol’s experimental film “Sleep” is literally just 5 hours of a man sleeping. Sure, it’s art, but it’s a test of endurance for even the most dedicated art lover. As a film, it’s wholly uneventful and unengaging. Unless you’re using it as a sleep aid, there’s no other reason to watch this snooze-fest.

Manos: The Hands of Fate

Photo Credit: Emerson Film Enterprises.

This low-budget horror film is infamous for its poor quality in almost every aspect: the acting is amateur, the plot is a disjointed mess, and the editing is a trainwreck. It’s a slog through a storyline that seems cobbled together with little thought.

The Tree of Life

Photo Credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Terrence Malick’s philosophical exploration of life is as lengthy as it is dull. With a 139-minute runtime, the movie delves deep into the meaning of life, but it often meanders without a clear plot direction. Its slow pace and abstract approach can be off-putting to those looking for a straightforward, engaging movie.

Morbius

Photo Credit: Sony Pictures.

“Morbius” is a superhero film about a scientist who becomes a vampire. Unfortunately, the movie fails to deliver on its promise of thrilling action and compelling drama. The storyline is generic, and the execution lacks flair, making it feel more like a bloodsucking chore than an entertaining escape.

Eternals

Photo Credit: Marvel Studios.

“Marvel’s Eternals” is a star-studded film that promised an epic superhero experience but delivered a slow, talk-heavy narrative with little excitement. The 2-hour-and-37-minute runtime is filled with more philosophical conversations than action-packed scenes. It’s a forgettable addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Cowboys & Aliens

Photo Credit: Universal Studios.

Mashing up the Western and Sci-Fi genres might sound fun, but “Cowboys & Aliens” fails to deliver the expected thrills. The plot is straightforward – cowboys fighting against invading aliens – but the film’s pacing and character development are too slow. Despite its promising concept, the movie fails to capture the imagination.

The Post

Photo Credit: Twentieth Century Fox.

This drama about the Washington Post’s publishing of the Pentagon Papers had potential but became a sluggish portrayal of journalistic effort. The pacing is slow, and the events seem to unfold in an unengaging way. Even though the performances are solid, the overall experience is as exciting as watching someone else do paperwork.

Snowman

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

A murder mystery thriller that is neither thrilling nor mysterious, “Snowman” promises a suspenseful ride but delivers a plot that is as uninspired as it is confusing. It’s a letdown for fans of the genre and a dull watch for anyone else.

Lorenzo’s Oil

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

Based on a heartwarming true story about a couple’s desperate search for treatment for their son’s rare disorder, “Lorenzo’s Oil” sadly falls flat. It’s a slow-moving drama that lacks tension. It feels more like an educational video than an inspiring film.

Ad Astra

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

While the idea of Brad Pitt in space might seem exciting, “Ad Astra” disappoints with its slow pace and uninspiring storytelling. It often feels like a lecture on the loneliness of space travel rather than an engaging exploration of the cosmos. The movie’s attempts to delve into philosophical territory feel forced and make for a tedious viewing experience.

Paint Drying

Photo Credit: Charlie Shackleton.

Believe it or not, there’s a film where the only action is watching paint dry for 10 hours; it’s as boring as it sounds. There’s nothing to engage the viewer, and it’s an entirely uneventful experience. It’s a literal representation of boredom and was meant to protest against the British Film Industry’s rating system.

Star Wars Holiday Special

Photo Credit: CBS.

The “Star Wars Holiday Special” is a mishmash of unrelated segments with a thin plot holding them together. Despite being set in the “Star Wars” universe, it has nothing like an exciting plot or interesting characters. It feels more like an extended, uninspired infomercial than a worthy addition to the franchise.

The Godfather 3

Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures.

After the first two masterpieces, “The Godfather 3” was a letdown. The film lacks the tension, depth, and character development that made the first two films classics. It’s a half-hearted attempt to milk the franchise instead of a worthy continuation of the story.

War Machine

Photo Credit: Plan B Entertainment/Netflix.

This war satire is neither funny nor satirical. It’s a slow and uninspired take on the absurdity of war. The pacing is sluggish, and the humor falls flat, making it a disappointing watch. It’s more like a lecture on war’s futility than an entertaining parody.

Battlefield Earth

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

Based on L. Ron Hubbard’s novel, this sci-fi movie is a monotonous and poorly-executed adaptation. Terrible dialogue, abysmal special effects, and a plot that is as unengaging as it is confusing. The film lacks any exciting moments or interesting characters, making it a tough watch.

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  

Daniel Clarke
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