The ’70s were a wild decade for cinema, with filmmakers pushing boundaries and experimenting with new styles. But not every film was an instant hit. Some movies were panned by critics, dismissed as flops, or downright ridiculed upon release—only to find new life as cult classics later on. Whether it was because of their quirky charm, offbeat humor, or sheer weirdness, these films found an audience that loved them for exactly what they were. Let’s dive into 12 movies from the ’70s that were critically hated but eventually became beloved cult classics.
1. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
When The Rocky Horror Picture Show first hit theaters, critics didn’t know what to make of its bizarre mix of sci-fi, horror, and campy musical numbers. Reviews were harsh, calling it confusing and tasteless, and the film flopped at the box office. But midnight screenings changed everything, as audiences embraced the film’s outrageousness and started dressing up, shouting lines, and making it an interactive experience. Today, it’s the ultimate cult classic, with a fanbase that keeps growing decades later.
2. Eraserhead (1977)
David Lynch’s Eraserhead baffled audiences and critics alike with its surreal imagery and nightmarish atmosphere. Many found it too weird, too slow, and downright disturbing, leading to plenty of walkouts during its initial screenings. But for those who stuck with it, the film’s haunting visuals and eerie sound design left a lasting impression. Over time, it became a cult favorite, celebrated for its originality and influence on indie cinema.
3. Phantom of the Paradise (1974)
Brian De Palma’s Phantom of the Paradise mixed rock opera, horror, and satire in a way that confused most critics at the time. It was seen as a messy, over-the-top film that didn’t quite know what it wanted to be. But fans were drawn to its unique style, catchy soundtrack, and campy vibe, turning it into a cult classic. Today, it’s praised for its boldness and ahead-of-its-time commentary on the music industry.
4. Zardoz (1974)
Zardoz featured Sean Connery in a red loincloth, wielding a gun in a post-apocalyptic world ruled by a giant floating stone head—it’s no wonder critics didn’t take it seriously. The film’s strange plot and heavy-handed symbolism left many scratching their heads, and it was quickly dismissed as a failure. But its sheer weirdness earned it a cult following, with fans embracing its bizarre charm and philosophical musings. It’s the kind of film that’s so bad, it’s good.
5. Pink Flamingos (1972)
John Waters’ Pink Flamingos was labeled as one of the most disgusting films ever made, with critics horrified by its shocking content and deliberate offensiveness. It was banned in several places and condemned by mainstream audiences. But underground film fans loved its unapologetic, rebellious spirit, and it quickly became a midnight movie sensation. Today, it’s considered a landmark in cult cinema, celebrated for pushing boundaries and defying convention.
6. The Warriors (1979)
When The Warriors was released, critics slammed it for glorifying gang violence and lacking depth. The film even sparked real-life violence at some theaters, leading to widespread controversy. But over time, its stylized depiction of New York’s street gangs, memorable quotes, and pulpy aesthetic earned it a loyal fanbase. It’s now seen as a classic of ’70s action cinema, influencing countless films and pop culture references.
7. Harold and Maude (1971)
Upon its release, Harold and Maude was met with confusion and criticism for its dark humor and unconventional romance between a young man and a much older woman. Many found it morbid and off-putting, and it flopped at the box office. But its quirky charm, poignant themes, and unforgettable soundtrack by Cat Stevens won over audiences in the years that followed. It’s now regarded as one of the greatest cult comedies of all time.
8. The Wicker Man (1973)
The Wicker Man was initially dismissed by critics as a strange, low-budget horror film that didn’t quite fit into any genre. Its blend of folk music, pagan rituals, and psychological terror confused audiences, and it faded into obscurity after its release. But horror fans rediscovered it, drawn to its eerie atmosphere and shocking ending. Today, it’s considered a masterpiece of folk horror and has inspired countless films and remakes.
9. Sorcerer (1977)
William Friedkin’s Sorcerer had the misfortune of releasing shortly after Star Wars, and critics were quick to dismiss it as a slow, grim thriller. The film’s dark tone and tense, minimalist storytelling didn’t appeal to mainstream audiences, and it bombed at the box office. But over time, its masterful suspense and gritty realism were recognized by film buffs. It’s now hailed as one of the most underrated thrillers of the decade.
10. Death Race 2000 (1975)
Death Race 2000 was dismissed as low-budget schlock upon release, with critics panning its over-the-top violence and campy style. The idea of a futuristic race where drivers scored points for running over pedestrians was too much for many to handle. But fans loved its satirical take on society, dark humor, and wild action sequences, turning it into a cult classic. It’s since inspired countless remakes and spin-offs, cementing its place in B-movie history.
11. The Holy Mountain (1973)
Alejandro Jodorowsky’s The Holy Mountain was a psychedelic, surrealist film that baffled critics with its abstract imagery and lack of traditional plot. Many saw it as pretentious and impenetrable, and it struggled to find an audience upon release. But for those willing to dive into its trippy visuals and philosophical themes, it became a mind-bending experience unlike anything else. Today, it’s revered in cult film circles as a visionary masterpiece.
12. Vanishing Point (1971)
Vanishing Point was initially seen as just another car-chase movie, with critics dismissing it for its sparse dialogue and minimalist plot. But the film’s existential undertones, stunning cinematography, and iconic Dodge Challenger earned it a cult following among gearheads and film fans alike. Its rebellious spirit and open-ended conclusion resonated with audiences over time. Now, it’s considered a classic of the road movie genre.
These films may have been panned when they first hit theaters, but they found a second life through loyal fans who saw something special in them. Whether it was their bold storytelling, unique style, or just plain weirdness, they’ve stood the test of time in ways no one could have predicted. Sometimes, it takes a little distance—and a lot of love from fans—to turn a flop into a classic.
