Worst of the Worst: 10 Aussie-Approved Films That Bombed on Rotten Tomatoes
Remember that feeling of excitement when a new trailer drops, promising a thrilling cinematic experience? Then the reviews come in… and it's not pretty. We've all been there. This time, it's the recently released War of the Worlds (2025) sparking the conversation. The 'screenlife' adaptation, which surprised audiences with its Prime Video premiere, has unfortunately landed with a thud, scoring a dismal 30 on Rotten Tomatoes.
But War of the Worlds isn't alone in its misfortune. We're taking a look back at ten other films – some big-budget flops, others low-budget disasters – that received the dreaded zero-star rating from the critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Prepare for a cringe-worthy journey through cinematic history, and find out what went wrong for these ill-fated productions.
The War of the Worlds Debacle: What Went Wrong?
The 'screenlife' format, where the entire film takes place on screens, is a risky gamble. While it can be effective in the right hands (think Searching or Host), War of the Worlds seemingly struggled to translate H.G. Wells' iconic sci-fi story into this modern medium. Early reports suggest a convoluted plot, wooden acting, and a lack of spectacle, despite the source material's potential for epic action. The low budget certainly didn't help, leaving viewers feeling shortchanged.
Beyond War of the Worlds: A Gallery of Rotten Tomatoes Zeroes
Let's delve into the company War of the Worlds now finds itself in. Here's a rundown of films that have achieved the unfortunate distinction of a zero Rotten Tomatoes score:
- Birdemic: Shock and Terror (2010): A notorious example of 'so bad it's good,' Birdemic is infamous for its terrible special effects and bizarre plot.
- Manos: The Hands of Fate (1966): Often cited as one of the worst films ever made, Manos is a slow-paced, confusing, and technically inept horror film.
- Troll 2 (1990): Despite the title, there are no trolls in this film. It's a bizarre, low-budget fantasy film that has gained a cult following for its sheer awfulness.
- Superbabies: Baby Geniuses 2 (2004): A sequel nobody asked for, Superbabies is widely considered to be a painful cinematic experience.
- Alone in the Dark (2005): A big-budget video game adaptation that failed to capture the spirit of the source material, resulting in critical derision.
- Catwoman (2004): A superhero film that deviated wildly from the source comic, earning near-universal condemnation.
- Gigli (2003): A crime romance starring Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez that was plagued by production issues and a weak script.
- Movie 43 (2013): An anthology film featuring a series of crude and offensive sketches.
- The Master (2012): While controversial, this film also received a Rotten Tomatoes score of zero.
Lessons Learned: What Can Filmmakers Do Differently?
The stories of these films serve as cautionary tales for aspiring filmmakers. A compelling script, talented actors, and a clear vision are essential, regardless of budget. Sometimes, even a big budget can't save a fundamentally flawed film. And perhaps, in the case of War of the Worlds, the 'screenlife' format simply wasn't the right choice for this classic story.
So, what do you think? Have you seen any of these films? Let us know in the comments below!
