Understanding Box Office Bombs
So what exactly is a box office bomb? Simply, it’s a film that fails to earn double its budget from worldwide box office returns. Why double? Remember, theaters get a share of the box-office revenue and the film’s budget does not include marketing costs. A rule followed by many is that a movie must make twice its budget in order to be profitable.
As for what defines a classic film, well, that can be subjective. But we’re focusing on films that have gathered a wide general agreement as must-sees over time. So, let’s dive into popular classics that initially fell flat at the box office.
Citizen Kane (1941)
Many have hailed Citizen Kane as the greatest movie ever made. Directed by Orson Welles, the film thinly disguises its depiction of newspaper magnate, William Randolph Hearst. Despite its brilliance, due to Hearst’s disapproval, Citizen Kane’s box office earnings were a disappointing $1.5 million on a budget of $800,000.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Known worldwide as a Christmas staple now, It’s a Wonderful Life was a financial flop initially. The film, despite its heartwarming narrative, only made $3.3 million on a budget that was just marginally less, effectively dashing director Frank Capra’s dreams of becoming a studio magnate.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Contrary to popular belief, this kooky classic did not strike gold upon its release. Despite being made on a budget of $3 million, it only managed to conjure up $4 million at the box office.
Blade Runner (1982)
Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner, despite its star power with Harrison Ford, had a lukewarm debut. The theatrical cut made $41.8 million on a budget of $30 million—far from profitable.
Clue (1985)
This celebrated comedy slipped into theaters with little fanfare. On a budget of $15 million, Clue only managed to scrape in $14.6 million worldwide box office returns.
Heathers (1989)
Despite becoming a beloved cult classic, Heathers had a dismal box office performance. With a budget of $3 million, the movie barely made a third of that worldwide.
Dazed and Confused (1993)
Richard Linklater’s classic only managed $8.2 million on a $6.9 million budget. Though a miss at theaters, it found its audience in home viewings.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
Beloved by a generation now, Hocus Pocus was far from popular on its release. On a $28 million budget, it only managed to bag $50.8 million.
Fight Club (1999)
David Fincher’s Fight Club may have been daring, but the box office wasn’t ready. With a $65 million budget, the film gathered only $101.2 million.
Office Space (1999)
Another film that found fame through repeat television airings, Office Space made just $12.2 million on a budget of $10 million.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)
Despite packing in stellar performances, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World barely managed to recoup its lavish budget. On a production cost of $60-$85 million, the film earned only $51.7 million.
The Nice Guys (2016)
Finally, The Nice Guys. Despite high critical acclaim, the film only made $62.8 million on a $50 million budget.
In Conclusion
While these movies may have floundered at the box office, over time, they’ve grown in popularity, developing a cult following and recognition as classics. Despite facing their fair share of hurdles—and some even leading to career setbacks for their creators—they have proven to carry resonant themes and enduring appeal, sparking conversations and influencing pop culture in profound ways. In the end, their initial box office flops couldn’t eclipse their brilliance.
