What Makes A Cult Classic

From nostalgia-inducing hits to movies that are so bad they’re good, the world of cult films is one that transcends almost every genre. The term “cult classic” isn’t easy to define. Some say that all a film needs to become a cult favorite is an intricate subculture and devoted fanbase. Others follow a more restrictive definition: a cult classic is a movie that is rejected by the mainstream and unsuccessful at the box office. Regardless of whatever definition you subscribe to, the following films will meet your cult expectations, however unusual they may be.

Edward Scissorhands

One of director Tim Burton’s most celebrated works, “Edward Scissorhands” has been dazzling audiences since 1990. The film was positively received by both audiences and critics, many of whom praised it for its combination of charming pastel visuals and gothic undertones. The movie centers around Edward (Johnny Depp), a lonely and mild-mannered young man created by an inventor, whose untimely death left him with—you guessed it—scissors for hands. Edward moves into the home of Avon representative Peg Boggs (Dianne West), who gradually integrates him into society. Resonating with mainstream audiences and becoming a part of goth subculture, “Edward Scissorhands” has influenced graphic novels, stage productions, and television. It was even adapted into a ballet, which, after premiering in London, toured Asia and the U.S. The film has even impacted the scientific world, inspiring the name of Kootenichela deppi (Get it? Like Depp?), an extinct sea creature with scissor-like claws. Since its release, the film has been a hallmark of Burton’s creativity, as well as a magnet for nostalgic film geeks, fantasy enthusiasts, and fans of the macabre.

Juno

Through its refreshingly witty humor and heartfelt score, “Juno” is a film that steps up to the plate in every aspect. The coming-of-age film follows Juno MacGuff (Ellen Page) after she gets pregnant during her junior year of high school. Upon its release in 2007, “Juno” garnered almost universally positive reception at the box office, not to mention four Academy Award nominations. The movie boasts a talented cast, each actor delivering an impressively honest performance. Standouts are Page, whose take on the title character earned her an Oscar nomination, and recent Oscar-winner Allison Janney, who uses just the right amount of tough love to portray Juno’s stepmother. Another important staple of the film is the soundtrack, which features the lyrical works of Kimya Dawson and became one of the few chart-toppers of 20th Century Fox. Any mention of the movie is sure to include praise for its score, which is endearing through its mellow and almost conversational melodies. Though unlike many cult films in that it did fare well at the box office, “Juno” has a wildly appreciative fanbase, as well as a reputation that has made it a common staple of pop culture.

Showgirls

As far as bad movies go, “Showgirls” is one whose inadequacy is pretty much agreed upon across the board. The 1995 drama follows the path of Nomi Malone (Elizabeth Berkley), a drifter who travels to Las Vegas in hopes of becoming a showgirl. Receiving criticism even from its own actors, “Showgirls” broke a record in the year of its release by earning seven nominations for the Golden Raspberry Awards, which recognize the film industry’s worst works. As a result of its NC-17 rating and laughably poor reviews, the film attracted a limited spectrum of viewers, resulting in its failure at the box office. It was also deemed so misogynistic and garish that viewers questioned whether or not it was to be taken seriously. Though the film is indisputably awful, it achieved its cult status through ironic celebration. Entertaining viewers through its exaggerated erotic themes and unintentionally funny screenplay, “Showgirls” attracts audiences who hope to laugh at its failure.

Reality Bites

The 1994 Generation X hit raked in fans by providing an honest and grunge-influenced snapshot of the era’s twenty-somethings. Winona Ryder, a cult icon herself, stars as Lelaina, an aspiring documentarian who, along with her ragtag group of friends, tries to kickstart her adult life after graduating from college. “Reality Bites” received mixed reviews from critics, but was widely praised for both encapsulating an iconic era and addressing prominent issues concerning young adults, such as the AIDS crisis and the lack of acceptance faced by the LGBT community. It remains a touchstone of the nineties, but with lines like “I’m bursting with fruit flavor,” “Reality Bites” can’t help but win over audiences of all generations.