Cult Classics: What Makes a Movie Gain Cult Status?

Cult classic films defy conventional success metrics, carving out their own special place in movie history. While some films aim for blockbuster status or critical acclaim, cult classics march to the beat of their own drum, often finding their audience long after their initial release.

But what exactly earns a film the coveted “cult classic” label? It’s not about box office numbers or critical reviews – it’s about the passionate response from a dedicated fanbase. These movies might not have set the world on fire on opening weekend, but they’ve sparked a flame that burns bright in the hearts of their devoted followers.

From obscure indies like 2003’s The Room (which only initially grossed $1,800 of it’s $6 million budget) to misunderstood mainstream releases like 1999’s Office Space, cult classics come in all shapes and sizes. They’re united by their ability to resonate deeply with a specific audience, often through unconventional storytelling, memorable characters, or quotable dialogue that becomes part of our cultural lexicon.

The Definition of Cult Classic Movies

Now, if you crack open the Oxford English Dictionary (you know, for a bit of light bedtime reading), you’ll find that cult films are those with “enduring appeal to a relatively small audience.” Sounds pretty straightforward, right?

But hold onto your popcorn, because it’s not that simple. The thing is, the dictionary definition and what we film geeks consider a cult classic don’t always line up. And don’t even get me started on how the internet has thrown its own spicy take into the mix, slapping the “cult” label on all sorts of flicks.

Why Films Become Cult Classics

Picture this: A movie hits theaters with all the fanfare of a mainstream release, only to be met with crickets (and maybe a few harsh critic quips). But that’s not the end of the story. Fast forward to the home video release, and suddenly, it’s like someone flipped a switch. The very same film that couldn’t fill a theater is now the talk of every dorm room and video store (remember those?).

These cult classics aren’t just for your average moviegoer. They’ve got a special appeal for the cinephiles among us.

According to Brunei University cult film archive director Xavier Mendik, certain films have become cult status for different reasons.

“A group will pick up on incredibly diverse parts of a movie so that it meets their needs,” said Mendik. Mendik explained that cult film fans are “active” compared to “passive mainstream cinema viewers.” This is expressed in a variety of ways such as cosplaying and role-playing.

University of East Anglia film and television studies Professor Mark Jancovich has a different argument for movies becoming cult films.

“Fans view the films that they celebrate either with patronizing affection or even downright contempt,” said Jancovich.

So, whether it’s through passionate fandom or affectionate mockery, these films find their way into our hearts and pop culture lexicon. It’s a wild ride from obscurity to cult status, and it just goes to show – in the world of movies, it ain’t over till the credits roll – and sometimes not even then.

What Makes a Cult Film?

Despite the general impression, a film achieving cult status is tricky. The “midnight releases” for example, are where cult films tend to be born. One possible way to start a cult following for a movie is to be self-referential. According to Mendik, some directors resort to “double-coding their work and loading a film with B-movie ephemera.”

However, Mendik emphasizes the elusive nature of cult status, stating, “Whilst anything can be a cult movie, you cannot guarantee the manufacture of one.” This underscores the organic, audience-driven nature of cult film development.

In the definition presented by Studiobinder, cult movies usually stay away from mainstream trends. These movies also provide “unique perspectives, controversial themes, or innovative storytelling techniques.” It’s also the aesthetic that makes a film gain a cult following and how its fans can creatively express their appreciation through themed parties, events, and costumes.

Narratively, cult films frequently challenge societal norms and conventions, exploring themes and imagery that mainstream cinema might shy away from. This willingness to push boundaries often resonates with niche audiences, contributing to the film’s cult appeal.

A Few Cult-Favorite Movies Beloved By Fans

A Clockwork Orange (1971) – Stanley Kubrick

This 1971 mind-bender is the poster child for “banned in Britain,” proving that sometimes, the best way to make people want something is to tell them they can’t have it!

Kubrick’s dystopian film, based on the 1962 novel by Anthony Burgess, hit the scene like a molotov cocktail in a library. Kubrick, in his infinite wisdom, decided to pull the film from UK screens. But did that stop people from wanting to see it? Not at all. Fast forward to the age of home video, and suddenly A Clockwork Orange is the forbidden fruit everyone’s dying to take a bite of.

The film follows Alex, our charming (?) protagonist. He’s got a thing for Beethoven, ultraviolence, and a bit of the old in-out, in-out. Along with his merry band of miscreants (the Droogs), Alex turns antisocial behavior into an art form. Think of them as the boy band from hell – instead of love songs, they’re serving up chaos with a side of classical music. But every party has to end sometime, right?

Alex finds himself on the wrong side of the law and becomes the guinea pig for a rehabilitation experiment that’s about as ethical as a fox guarding a henhouse. It’s a wild ride through crime, punishment, and the question of whether you can really reprogram the human brain – all set to a killer soundtrack.

Two Lane Blacktop (1971) – Monte Hellman

Monte Hellman’s Two Lane Blacktop, released in the same year as Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange, offers another fascinating example of a film’s journey to cult status. This 1971 road movie initially flew under the radar, but its devoted fanbase played a crucial role in bringing it back into the spotlight.

After its premiere, the studio inexplicably shelved the film, keeping it out of public view for years. However, the movie’s followers refused to let it fade into obscurity. Their persistent demand for a home video release in the 1990s eventually paid off, allowing a new generation of viewers to discover this overlooked classic.

Two Lane Blacktop takes viewers on a journey across America’s highways and byways. At its core are two enigmatic characters known simply as the Driver and the Mechanic. These street racers, living a nomadic lifestyle in their 1955 Chevrolet 150, embody a distinctly American sense of freedom and rebellion. The film follows their cross-country odyssey as they drift from town to town, making their living by challenging locals to high-stakes drag races.

This simple premise serves as a backdrop for Hellman to explore themes of alienation, purpose, and the allure of the open road. 

Reefer Madness (1936) – Louis G. Gasnier

One of Hollywood’s earliest exploitation movies, Reefer Madness, stands as a prime example of how a film’s reception can dramatically shift over time.

Louis G. Gasnier’s unintentional comedy classic was initially released by a church group and created with the earnest intention of warning the public about the perceived dangers of marijuana use. However, its over-the-top portrayal of cannabis effects and melodramatic storyline has since rendered it an unintentional comedy, particularly popular among the very audience it once sought to deter.

The film’s plot revolves around Mae Coleman and Jack Perry, a couple whom both sell marijuana. Jack, despite Mae’s reservations, sells to teenagers, expanding his customer base through college dropout Ralph and a character named Blanche. From this premise, the narrative spirals into a series of increasingly outlandish scenes involving crime and moral decay, all allegedly stemming from marijuana use.

What makes Reefer Madness a cult classic is its transformation from serious social commentary to laughable artifact. The film’s evolution from cautionary tale to cult classic serves as a fascinating case study in how films can take on new meanings and find new audiences long after their initial release – reminding us that in cinema, as in life, context is everything, and sometimes a film’s legacy can be far removed from its original intentions.

Plan 9 From Outer Space (1959) – Edward D. Wood Jr.

Dubbed the worst movie ever made, Wood’s low-budget sci-fi still found its fans, despite continuity errors and subpar acting. There’s also the fact that this marks the last film of Bela Lugosi, who passed away while the movie was being made. Lugosi would be replaced by a much taller man, which is another aspect of why the movie enters the “so bad it’s good” territory of cult status.

Originally titled Grave Robbers From Outer Space, the film underwent a name change for its mainstream release. The plot, as outlandish as it is ambitious, follows extraterrestrial beings attempting to prevent humanity from developing a universe-destroying weapon. Their strategy, the titular “Plan 9,” involves resurrecting the dead to create chaos and compel humans to heed their warning.

What sets Plan 9 From Outer Space apart in the pantheon of cult cinema is its earnestness. Despite its technical shortcomings, Wood’s genuine passion for storytelling and filmmaking is palpable. This sincerity, coupled with its unintentional humor, has endeared the film to generations of viewers who find joy in its quirks and imperfections.

Showgirls (1995) – Paul Verhoeven

The erotic drama directed by Verhoeven was critically and commercially panned when it first premiered. But its home video release thrived, selling $100 million of DVDs and other media.

At the heart of Showgirls is Nomi Malone, a determined drifter with dreams of stardom. The narrative follows her journey as she hitchhikes to Las Vegas, aspiring to become a showgirl in the glittering, cutthroat world of entertainment. Verhoeven’s unflinching portrayal of this neon-lit odyssey pushes boundaries and challenges viewers, contributing to the film’s controversial reputation.

What makes Showgirls a quintessential cult film is its unapologetic excess. From its over-the-top performances to its lavish production design, the movie embraces a “more is more” philosophy that initially alienated critics but later captivated audiences looking for something beyond conventional cinema.

The Big Lebowski (1998) – Joel and Ethan Coen

The Coen Brothers’ The Big Lebowski stands as one of the best examples of how a cult film can inspire passionate fan expression and create an enduring cultural icon. This quirky comedy, initially met with mixed reviews and modest box office returns, has since blossomed into a beloved cult classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

At the heart of the film’s cult status is its protagonist, Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski. The Dude’s laid-back philosophy and approach to life – unhurried, unbothered, and unapologetically himself – struck a chord with fans, inspiring not just admiration but emulation.

The plot of the film is delightfully offbeat. It follows The Dude, a bowling enthusiast and committed slacker, who becomes embroiled in a bizarre case of mistaken identity. When he’s confused for a millionaire who shares his name, The Dude seeks compensation for his ruined rug, enlisting the help of his eccentric bowling buddies. What unfolds is a comedic odyssey through Los Angeles, filled with memorable characters and so much quotable dialogue.

What sets The Big Lebowski apart in the world of cult cinema is the level of fan engagement it inspires. Devotees of the film, affectionately known as “Achievers,” express their appreciation through elaborate costume parties and fan conventions. These events often feature attendees dressed as their favorite characters, with The Dude’s signature bathrobe and White Russian cocktail being particularly popular choices.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) – Jim Sharman

It’s 1975, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show strutted onto the big screen like a fabulous alien in fishnet stockings. At first, mainstream audiences had no clue what they were watching. But faster than you can say, “Dammit, Janet!” this film found its tribe of devoted fans who turned late-night screenings into the ultimate party.

The musical comedy horror is the big-screen adaptation of the 1973 stage play of the same name. A tribute to the science fiction and horror B-movies of the 1930s to 1960s, it also features some of the play’s cast.

The story follows a young couple, Brad Majors and Janet Weiss, who just got engaged and decided to share the news with their science teacher, Dr. Everett Scott. However, car trouble and a stormy night lead them to a castle that’s more Adams Family than Downton Abbey. Enter Dr. Frank N. Furter, the mad scientist who puts the “fabulous” in “diabolical.” 

Rocky Horror didn’t just become a cult favorite; it became THE cult favorite, spawning midnight screenings, costume parties, and more callbacks than a telemarketing company. It even got a “sequel” called Shock Treatment.

Office Space (1999) – Mike Judge

The corporate-set world of Office Space is the poster child for how a cult classic can sneak its way into the mainstream faster than you can say “PC load letter.”

Mike Judge’s brainchild, born from his “Milton” cartoon series, gives us Peter Gibbons – a programmer at Initech who’s living the corporate drone dream (or nightmare). Peter’s girlfriend Anne, tired of his work complaints, makes him visit an occupational hypnotherapist. Dr. Swanson works his magic, and suddenly, Peter gives zero faxes about his job. Meanwhile, his boss, the infamously annoying Bill Lumbergh, is still trying to rope him into working weekends like it’s going out of style.

What started as a quirky look at office life has become a rallying cry for cubicle warriors everywhere. It’s like “Office Space” held up a mirror to corporate America, and we all collectively went, “Yep, that’s us, and it’s hilarious… and a little sad.”

Wrapping It All Up!

Cult classics are like the rebellious teenagers of the movie world – they might not have aced their initial box office test or won over the critics, but they’ve got staying power that would make a stubborn stain jealous.

These films are the spicy salsa to Hollywood’s mild cheese dip, serving up unique flavors in storytelling and visuals that might make mainstream audiences scratch their heads but leave a devoted fanbase screaming for seconds. They’re not picky about genres either – horror, comedy, sci-fi, you name it, there’s probably a cult classic wearing that hat.

Here’s the kicker – sometimes, these under-the-radar gems become so beloved that they break into the mainstream. It’s like watching the nerdy kid in high school suddenly become prom king. As culture shifts, yesterday’s cult oddity could be tomorrow’s required viewing. So, whether they’re lurking in the shadows of obscurity or basking in newfound popularity, cult classics prove that in the world of cinema, it’s not about how you start – it’s about how you endure. They’re the ultimate proof that sometimes, the most interesting stories happen after the credits roll.