Today, in Hollywood, the phenomenon of “big fish eating small fish” is ever-present, as blockbuster movies continue to draw massive audiences into theaters. In 2016, titles like “Finding Dory,” “Captain America: Civil War,” and “Zootopia” achieved global box office revenues exceeding $1 billion. While these films received acclaim from enthusiastic fans and critics alike, many other films were equally praised but underperformed at the box office.
Often, this can be attributed to either a film’s excessive “artiness” or a failure to resonate with current trends, or it might simply be due to a lack of a compelling marketing budget, resulting in limited audience reach. Regardless of the circumstances, many of these films deserve more attention, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the 17 best films of 2016 that you may have missed:
(To qualify for this list, films must have had a theatrical release and grossed under $50 million at the domestic box office.)
17. Swiss Army Man
Following its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, “Swiss Army Man” sparked a polarizing debate among audiences. Some found it too “weird” and left the theater, while others appreciated its unique blend of absurd humor and deeper existential themes. This film serves as a fresh and bold experience, showcasing one of Daniel Radcliffe’s most impressive performances to date.
16. Don’t Think Twice
“Don’t Think Twice” received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of a New York improv group facing the ups and downs of fame. Written and directed by Mike Birbiglia, who also stars in the film, it offers a humorous yet poignant look at friendship and ambition.
15. Hail, Caesar!
Directed by the Coen brothers, “Hail, Caesar!” is a comedic homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood, featuring an ensemble cast that includes George Clooney, Scarlett Johansson, and Channing Tatum. Despite grossing only $30 million domestically, it remains a notable entry in the Coen brothers’ filmography, blending humor with a sharp critique of the film industry.
14. Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping
For over a decade, the comedy group The Lonely Island, consisting of Andy Samberg, Jorma Taccone, and Akiva Schaffer, has produced hilarious music-related films. Their latest effort, “Popstar,” features a satirical take on the music industry and follows a pop star named Conner4Real. Although it made less than $10 million at the box office, “Popstar” remains beloved by fans for its clever humor and memorable musical numbers.
13. The Fits
Directed by Anna Rose Holmer, “The Fits” presents a unique perspective on the challenges faced by a young girl drawn into the world of competitive dance. The film explores themes of identity and peer pressure, creating a captivating narrative that resonated with audiences, despite its limited theatrical release.
12. Everybody Wants Some!!
Considered a spiritual sequel to the classic “Dazed and Confused,” Richard Linklater’s “Everybody Wants Some!!” explores the lives of college baseball players in the 1980s. The film captures the essence of youth and nostalgia, combined with a fantastic soundtrack that transports viewers back in time.
11. The Lobster
In this darkly comedic drama, Colin Farrell stars as David, a man in a dystopian society where single individuals must find a romantic partner within 45 days or face transformation into an animal. “The Lobster” presents a satirical exploration of relationships and societal expectations, making it a unique cinematic experience.
10. A Bigger Splash
Before portraying “The Ancient One” in “Doctor Strange,” Oscar-winning actress Tilda Swinton starred as a rock star on vacation in Italy, whose life takes a turn when an old friend and his daughter arrive. This film explores complex emotional landscapes and has garnered critical acclaim for its depth and artistic execution.
Source: Business Insider
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