The 20 most underrated films ever

Here’s a list of 20 of the most underrated films ever, spanning different genres and eras. These films may have been overlooked at the time of their release, but they have since gained a cult following or critical reappraisal:

1. Children of Men (2006) – This dystopian thriller directed by Alfonso Cuarón received critical acclaim but performed poorly at the box office. Its innovative cinematography and prescient themes make it one of the most compelling sci-fi films of its time.

2. The Iron Giant (1999) – Despite being a box-office failure, Brad Bird’s animated feature has grown in stature and is now regarded as one of the greatest animated films ever, praised for its heart and social commentary.

3. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005) – Directed by Shane Black, this dark comedy mystery starring Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer is full of wit and clever twists but never achieved the widespread recognition it deserved.

4. Donnie Darko (2001) – Initially overlooked, Richard Kelly’s surreal sci-fi drama about a troubled teen and a giant bunny has since become a cult classic for its enigmatic plot and atmospheric mood.

5. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) – A poetic, slow-burning Western starring Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck. Its meditative pacing kept it from mainstream success, but it’s now lauded for its craftsmanship and performances.

6. A Scanner Darkly (2006) – Richard Linklater’s animated adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s novel features a unique rotoscoping style and thought-provoking exploration of surveillance, drugs, and paranoia.

7. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010) – Despite a unique visual style and cult following, Edgar Wright’s video game-inspired film didn’t achieve widespread box-office success, though it has been highly praised for its innovation.

8. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003) – Peter Weir’s naval epic is often overshadowed by the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise but is a beautifully shot, immersive historical drama with outstanding performances by Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany.

9. The Nice Guys (2016) – Another Shane Black film, this buddy-cop comedy starring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe is both hilarious and smartly written, but it didn’t get the recognition it deserved.

10. Moon (2009) – Duncan Jones’ debut feature is a quiet, thought-provoking sci-fi film about isolation and identity, featuring a standout performance by Sam Rockwell.

11. The Fall (2006) – Directed by Tarsem Singh, this visually stunning fantasy adventure was largely ignored upon release but is now admired for its breathtaking cinematography and imaginative storytelling.

12. Edge of Tomorrow (2014) – A sci-fi action film starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt that didn’t make a huge splash at the box office but has since gained recognition for its clever premise and strong performances.

13. Cloud Atlas (2012) – The Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer’s ambitious adaptation of David Mitchell’s novel was divisive at release, but its sprawling, interconnected narratives have garnered praise over time.

14. Hot Rod (2007) – Andy Samberg stars in this absurd and hilarious comedy about an aspiring stuntman. It bombed upon release but is now beloved by fans of its offbeat humor.

15. The Guest (2014) – This stylish thriller from Adam Wingard combines horror, action, and dark humor, starring Dan Stevens as a mysterious stranger who upends a family's life.

16. Warrior (2011) – A powerful sports drama about two estranged brothers who face off in an MMA tournament. Despite great performances from Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton, it flew under the radar.

17. Brick (2005) – Rian Johnson’s high school-set neo-noir mystery didn’t find a wide audience upon release but is now regarded as an inventive and well-executed homage to classic noir.

18. The Fountain (2006) – Darren Aronofsky’s ambitious sci-fi drama about love, death, and immortality was polarizing but has since found appreciation for its bold storytelling and visual splendor.

19. Dredd (2012) – A gritty, violent adaptation of the comic book character Judge Dredd, this film was overshadowed by its bigger-budget contemporaries but has gained a cult following.

20. Wristcutters: A Love Story (2006) – This dark romantic comedy about the afterlife is quirky, poignant, and criminally underrated, with a unique tone that blends tragedy and humor.

These films are now seen as hidden gems, often beloved by those who appreciate innovation and risk-taking in cinema.