From Disdain to Delight: Controversial Films That Captivated Audiences Despite Criticism

1. Lights Out 2024，IMDB Rating: 4.8, IMDB Votes: 1353, ID: 16368898
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Lights Out tells the gripping story of a homeless veteran drawn into the gritty world of underground fight clubs, generating mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its thrilling action sequences and strong performances, others pointed out issues like choppy editing and underdeveloped characters. Nonetheless, the film’s deep dive into the fight world and its protagonist’s struggles keeps it engaging for viewers.
2. MaXXXine 2024，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 14094, ID: 22048412
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MaXXXine, the final chapter in Ti West’s horror trilogy, has garnered acclaim for its strikingly stylized take on the ’80s and Mia Goth’s bold performance. However, some critics expressed disappointment with the film’s climax, feeling it didn’t deliver a satisfying conclusion. Yet, its refreshing perspective on horror and a nuanced exploration of the adult film industry make it a must-see.
3. Fly Me to the Moon 2024，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 9120, ID: 1896747
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Fly Me to the Moon, a romantic comedy set against the backdrop of NASA’s Apollo 11 moon landing, has received mixed reviews. Critics praised the film’s nostalgic atmosphere and the performances of Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum, but criticized the lack of chemistry between the leads and the film’s inconsistent tone. Despite these criticisms, the film’s unique blend of romance, comedy, and historical drama make it an interesting watch.
4. The Beast Within 2024，IMDB Rating: 4.8, IMDB Votes: 145, ID: 14539318
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The Beast Within centers on a man grappling with a hereditary curse, and while it has drawn mixed reviews, it captivates with its atmospheric setting and strong performances. Critics have pointed out the film’s plot weaknesses and disconnected narrative, but its exploration of family curses wrapped in a gothic ambiance keeps audiences intrigued and entertained.
5. Breaking the Ice 2024，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 33015766
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Breaking the Ice, a film about three lost souls facing the frozen world, has been praised for its beautiful cinematography and its exploration of isolation. However, some critics felt that the film’s narrative was too simplistic and lacked depth. Despite these criticisms, the film’s poignant depiction of isolation and its stunning visuals make it a captivating watch.
6. Challengers 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 83688, ID: 16426418
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Challengers, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a drama about a love triangle between tennis pros. The film is extravagantly goofy, hilarious, and wonderful, with spectacular scenes of athletic competition. However, the character of Tashi, played by Zendaya, has been criticized for her manipulative actions and unclear motivations. As a movie fan who appreciates creativity and originality, I found the film’s unique approach to the sports genre refreshing, but the character development left something to be desired.
7. Lady in the Lake 2024，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 1420, ID: 14022668
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Lady in the Lake is a mystery thriller that lacks tension and intrigue. The series’ first two episodes are streaming now on Apple TV+. The film is a compelling, but ultimately unrewarding murder mystery thriller. As a fan of mystery and thrillers, I found the film’s lack of suspense disappointing. The characters, especially Maddie, played by Natalie Portman, were not relatable or likable, which made it hard for me to engage with the story.
8. Inside Out 2 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 88710, ID: 22022452
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Inside Out 2 dives into Riley’s tumultuous teenage years and the new emotions that accompany her, offering a lively yet emotionally charged adventure. While it tackles the pressures of adolescence, some feel it lacks the depth and originality of its predecessor. Critics have particularly noted the character of Anxiety, portrayed by Maya Hawke, for her unrealistic journey, leaving viewers wanting a more nuanced representation. As a fan of imaginative storytelling, I appreciated the film’s complex themes, yet wished for a more grounded approach to Anxiety’s character development.
9. Thelma 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 6266, ID: 23778968
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Thelma, directed by Annie Baker, introduces a fresh perspective on the action genre with a comedic twist, featuring a grandmother who becomes an unlikely hero in a brisk 96-minute runtime. Though the film is smartly constructed and humorous, some have criticized Thelma’s character for her questionable choices and implausible actions. As a comedy enthusiast, I enjoyed the film’s humor and unique premise, while hoping for a more relatable portrayal of Thelma’s character.
10. Janet Planet 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 537, ID: 28366692
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Janet Planet, directed by Annie Baker, is a film about the relationship between a mother and her daughter. The film is spare and contemplative, with a lot of detail brought to its characters. However, the character of Lacy, played by Zoe Ziegler, has been criticized for her clingy relationship with her mother and her inability to let anyone else in. As a fan of films that portray deep and complex relationships, I found the film’s exploration of the mother-daughter bond intriguing, but felt that the character of Lacy could have been developed in a more nuanced way.
11. Problemista 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 5477, ID: 15078804
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Problemista is a surreal comedy that critiques the US immigration system in a thought-provoking way. However, the character Sandro has been criticized for being unrealistic and annoying. Despite this, the film’s unique approach and compelling message make it a must-watch.
12. One Life 2024，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 32820823
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One Life is a biopic that tells the remarkable story of Winton. However, the film has been criticized for its run-of-the-mill approach. Despite this, it does justice to Winton’s story and is worth watching.
13. Ordinary Angels 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 7708, ID: 4996328
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Ordinary Angels is a heartrending faith-based true story about an alcoholic hairdresser who makes miracles happen for a terminally ill girl. The film doesn’t seem to have any controversial characters related to the topic. It’s a touching film that showcases the power of faith and miracles.
14. You’ll Never Find Me 2023，IMDB Rating: 5.8, IMDB Votes: 5588, ID: 22023218
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You’ll Never Find Me is a chilling horror film that packs a punch with its unexpected twists. However, the character of Patrick has faced scrutiny for his unrealistic survival experience throughout the storyline. Despite this, the film’s inventive approach and gripping narrative ensure it remains a thrilling watch that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
15. Late Night with the Devil 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 69280, ID: 14966898
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Late Night with the Devil offers a unique blend of supernatural horror set against the backdrop of a TV studio, but has been critiqued for its found footage style. Regardless of these criticisms, the film’s innovative concept and chilling execution deliver a frighteningly fun experience for horror enthusiasts.