12 Box-Office Flops That Became Classics

Some films open to poor ticket sales or critical backlash but later win devoted followings. Missing the moment in theaters doesn’t prevent a movie from finding new life on television, home video, or through critical reassessment. John Carpenter’s The Thing was dismissed on release but embraced by horror fans for its practical effects.

Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life underperformed initially and only became a holiday staple after widespread television airings. The Shawshank Redemption also struggled at the box office, hampered by its title and stiff competition, before TV viewings helped it build a vast audience.

Gene Wilder’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory faced production issues and mixed reactions before repeated airings revealed its strengths. Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo received a chilly reception and was even withdrawn from circulation, later resurfacing to greater acclaim.

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