1. The Hurt Locker 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 476492, ID: 0887912 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Kathryn Bigelow’s ‘The Hurt Locker’ is highly regarded for its intense portrayal of bomb disposal units in Iraq; however, some critics argue it’s overrated because of perceived inaccuracies and a lack of character depth. Still, the film’s suspenseful scenes and Jeremy Renner’s riveting portrayal as a reckless bomb technician create a gripping narrative that offers a raw insight into the psychological impacts of warfare.
2. Slumdog Millionaire 2008，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 882091, ID: 1010048 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Danny Boyle’s ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ is celebrated for its rags-to-riches story and vibrant portrayal of Mumbai, yet some critics find it overrated due to its melodramatic elements and simplistic narrative. Despite this, the film’s energetic direction, compelling performances, and uplifting message about destiny and perseverance make it an engaging and emotionally resonant experience.
3. The Tree of Life 2011，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 185054, ID: 0478304 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Terrence Malick’s ‘The Tree of Life’ is a visually stunning and philosophically ambitious film, but its abstract narrative and slow pacing have led some to label it as overrated. While the film’s exploration of life’s origins and the human experience can be polarizing, its breathtaking cinematography and profound themes offer a unique and contemplative cinematic journey.
4. The Master 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 187573, ID: 1560747 Photo by cineenconserva.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘The Master’ sparks debates as it explores the intricate nature of humanity and the allure of cults, featuring brilliant performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Despite its compelling acting, the film’s ambiguous story and deliberate pacing may lead some to dismiss it as overrated, yet its profound themes of post-war trauma and the quest for meaning make it a captivating viewing experience.
5. Her 2013，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 678157, ID: 1798709 Photo by popkult.blog.hu, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Spike Jonze’s ‘Her’ presents a unique love story between a man and an AI, raising questions about the nature of relationships in a digital age. While praised for its originality and emotional depth, some critics argue that its futuristic premise and sentimental tone make it overrated. Nonetheless, the film’s exploration of loneliness and human connection remains deeply resonant.
6. Boyhood 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 369101, ID: 1065073 Photo by blog.coyoteproductions.co.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Richard Linklater’s ‘Boyhood’ is an ambitious project that captures the essence of growing up over 12 years. Despite its critical acclaim, some viewers find its lack of a traditional plot and slow pace overrated. However, its realistic portrayal of life’s mundane moments and the passage of time offers a unique cinematic experience.
7. Moonlight 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 334582, ID: 4975722 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Barry Jenkins’ ‘Moonlight’ stands out as a moving examination of identity, sexuality, and masculinity that garnered immense praise and even snagged the Best Picture Oscar. Despite some considering it overrated due to its deliberate pacing and weighty themes, the film’s poignant storytelling and emotional resonance mark it as an essential piece of contemporary cinema.
8. Lady Bird 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 336026, ID: 4925292 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Greta Gerwig’s ‘Lady Bird’ is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that resonates with many viewers. Despite its critical success, some argue that its portrayal of teenage angst and familial conflict is overrated. However, the film’s authentic characters and relatable themes make it a charming and insightful watch.
9. Call Me by Your Name 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 322318, ID: 5726616 Photo by diggita.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Although ‘Call Me by Your Name’ receives acclaim for its lush visuals and heartfelt performances, critics sometimes deem it overrated because of its slow pacing and seemingly thin plot. The film beautifully captures a summer romance in 1980s Italy, yet its leisurely rhythm and aesthetic focus may not appeal to every viewer; its charm lies largely in its visual splendor and emotional depth rather than a dynamic storyline.
10. Roma 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 170880, ID: 6155172 Photo by geekblast.com.br, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Alfonso Cuarón’s ‘Roma’ is celebrated for its breathtaking black-and-white cinematography, portraying the life of a domestic worker in 1970s Mexico City with delicate intimacy. Yet, some critics argue it’s overrated due to its slow flow and absence of a conventional plot, as its stunning visuals and emotional weight may not engage all viewers. Despite the critical acclaim it received, ‘Roma’ may not resonate universally as its accolades imply.
11. Gisaengchung 2019，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 981002, ID: 6751668 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Bong Joon-ho’s ‘Gisaengchung’ (Parasite) is widely regarded as a masterpiece for its sharp social commentary and genre-blending storytelling. Yet, some critics argue that it is overrated, citing its heavy-handed approach to class conflict and its abrupt tonal shifts. While the film’s exploration of social inequality is powerful and thought-provoking, its exaggerated characters and dramatic plot twists may not appeal to everyone. Despite its numerous awards, ‘Gisaengchung’ may not live up to the hype for all viewers.
12. The Blair Witch Project 1999，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 289473, ID: 0185937 Photo by gwigwi.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Blair Witch Project revolutionized the horror genre with its found-footage style, but its minimalistic approach and lack of clear resolution have led some to label it as overrated. Despite this, its ability to evoke fear through suggestion and atmosphere remains a significant achievement.
13. The English Patient 1996，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 203342, ID: 0116209 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The English Patient captivates audiences with its grand romance and intricate storytelling, leading to both admiration and critique. While some viewers find its slow pace and complex narrative overrated, others cherish its poetic storytelling and emotional richness. The film’s visual artistry and powerful performances contribute to its status as a memorable cinematic experience.
14. Crash 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 450696, ID: 0375679 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Crash tackles the complex issues of race and prejudice in Los Angeles, but its heavy-handed approach and contrived plot have led to its reputation as an overrated film. Despite winning the Best Picture Oscar, many feel it oversimplifies its themes, though its ambition and strong performances are noteworthy.
15. The Shape of Water 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 450724, ID: 5580390 Photo by oldaintdead.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Guillermo del Toro’s ‘The Shape of Water’ enchants with its visually arresting story of a mute woman falling for an amphibious creature. Critics debate its heavy-handed symbolism and the use of real-life events to create atmosphere, which some find overrated. Nevertheless, the film’s distinct premise and strong performances, particularly by Sally Hawkins, offer an intriguing viewing experience that draws audiences in.
15 Controversial Yet Critically Acclaimed Films You Need to See
