Tapping a well-known movie as overrated can stir up a little controversy and provoke endless arguments. However, sometimes the shoe fits and it’s simply necessary to slap the overrated tag on some films, particularly those that carry high IMDB ratings (8.0 or higher).
In an effort to simplify things and not infuriate the feisty and territorial nostalgic movie buffs, we’ve decided to keep the list to movies released over the last 20 years.
The Big Lebowski (1998) – 8.2 Rating
The Big Lebowski is easily the most overrated movie of all time and we don’t need IMDB’s generous 8.2 rating to reaffirm that widespread belief. The plot line is stupid and uninteresting. The jokes and supposedly hilarious elements are not the least bit funny. Placing it among the great movies of all-time, a common practice for many diehard Lebowski fans, is a disgrace and cheapens the value of truly classic films. A smattering of amusing one-liners is the only thing that keeps it afloat.
The Dark Knight Rises (2012) – 8.4
Fan ratings can be skewed for movies with an already-built-in audience, as is always the case with superhero films. As a result, it’s reasonable to assume that the Dark Knight Rises’ IMDB rating of 8.4 is partially attributed to both passionate superhero/Batman fans and those who loved previous films in the franchise, many of which would’ve given the 2012 movie an excellent rating regardless of its quality.
Gran Torino (2008) – 8.2
We’re all still waiting for something to actually happen in Gran Torino. Interesting film? Absolutely. Curious plot lines? Definitely. Boring as hell? Bingo.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) – 8.2
Expectations were very high for The Wolf of Wall Street and some thought it could finally grab Leonardo DiCaprio an Oscar. The story is fascinating and Leo does crush his role of Jordan Belfort but the film is demolished by overdone scenes and unnecessary tangents. I don’t need to see him crawling around town for 15 minutes, nor do I need to watch him navigate the brutal seas for what felt like two hours.
Donnie Darko (2001) – 8.1
Donnie Darko isn’t necessarily a bad movie but it’s not for everyone, especially those who like to see the plot progress into something entertaining and not one that appears to confuse its own self. It’s odd and uncomfortable enough to keep your attention but too unsatisfying and random to generate legitimate excitement.
Big Fish (2003) – 8.0
This book-based film is aesthetically beautiful and reels you with witty quips and feel-good characters. However, director Tim Burton seemed intent on making Big Fish as whimsical as possible and although we’re not surprised by his style, it goes too far and the movie’s true messages are lost in its many odd scenes. IMDB’s 8.0 rating is much too charitable.
