In my opinion, there’s no superior platform for cinema enthusiasts like Letterboxd, an application and community space that allows users to document all the movies they watch, track what their friends are watching, compile lists, and rate countless films from zero to five stars.
You’re able to view the outcomes of those rankings as well, and here on ScreenCrush, we’ve got articles where you can easily scan through Letterboxd’s top and bottom films. However, it’s important to note that Letterboxd has millions of users, and they don’t always see eye-to-eye about what makes a film great or terrible. This discrepancy is the focus of today’s discussion.
These films sparked the most varied opinions among Letterboxd voters, with some receiving the lowest and highest ratings equally. Are they masterpieces or duds? Innovative or infuriating? As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another’s treasure. Regardless of whether you label these movies as controversial, polarizing, or divisive, they are the ones that elicited the most diverse responses from users on Letterboxd.
25 movies featured below have been compiled from a “Most Controversial Films on Letterboxd” list by user thisisdrew. All short films, TV series, and documentaries were excluded from this list (it seems like they could warrant their own list in the future). What remains are the most contentious films, arranged in ascending order.
The Most Polarizing Movies Ever, According to Letterboxd
25. Homoti (1987)
As a cinephile who’s no stranger to the world cinema scene, I’ve had the peculiar pleasure of witnessing the unique cinematic landscape that is Turkey’s local film industry. Often imitating Hollywood blockbusters on a budget, the results can be rather laughable at times. Yet, among these productions, there’s one that stands out as exceptionally bizarre and captivatingly surreal: “Homoti,” a Turkish spin on the classic “E.T.”
In this peculiar rendition, our extraterrestrial friend is portrayed by a little person donning an extraordinary costume, complete with a remarkably prominent derriere. This alien forms an unlikely bond with a journalist, and their friendship unfolds in a manner that’s as unexpected as it is endearing.
Amidst the sea of five-star reviews for this film on Letterboxd, you’ll find two from, well, yours truly. Yes, I’ve had the privilege (or was it necessity?) of watching “Homoti” not once, but twice. After all, we all found different ways to navigate the pandemic.
24. Peppa Pig: My First Cinema Experience (2017)
Average Letterboxd Rating: 3.2
Content Summary: Transforming nine episodes of the widely recognized preschool series “Peppa Pig” into a full-length 72-minute movie was done, though it drew mixed reactions from mature Letterboxd users. However, this film does have its supporters, among them being David Ehrlich from Indiewire, who succinctly expressed his approval with the phrase: “Yes, indeed!”
The theatrical adaptation of nine episodes from the beloved preschool show “Peppa Pig,” totaling 72 minutes in length, received a mixed response from older users on Letterboxd. Nonetheless, it has garnered some positive feedback, such as that of David Ehrlich from Indiewire who simply stated: “Absolutely yes!
23. Llamageddon (2015)
Impressive but Divisive – Horror Film Review
This intriguing horror movie (reportedly centered around “an alien llama killer from outer space that crashes onto Earth, wreaking havoc and destruction in its wake”) has received a mixed bag of ratings on Letterboxd. The film seems to have approximately the same number of one-and-a-half star and five-star reviews (around 1600 for each). One of the unfavorable reviews states, “Once I woke up during an operation on my testicles, and this movie still ranks as the most painful experience I’ve ever had.” Ouch indeed.
22. Ben & Arthur (2002)
2.1
21. Goat Story (2008)
20. Among Us (2017)
19. Creating Rem Lezar (1989)
Average Rating on Letterboxd: 3.0
For quite some time, this peculiar children’s film had been scarcely available, primarily circulating among a niche yet devoted fan group through rare VHS tapes. More recently, it was restored and launched on Blu-ray by the talented team at Found Footage Festival, broadening its reach to an audience that, while not always wholly understanding it, still found it intriguing. Some viewers, though puzzled, left favorable reviews on Letterboxd, such as the user who described it as “both bewildering and captivating” and a “quaint pleasure.
18. Standing Ovation (2010)
17. Inspector Faustão and the Vagabond (1991)
Title Analysis:
The average rating for this film on Letterboxd is 2.8.
Plot Summary:
This story revolves around Faustão, a humble fruit vendor, who is chosen by none other than God to transform into Inspector Faustão, a champion for animal rights. Accompanied by Sérgio Mallandro, he embarks on a mission to rescue a group of quails from an unlawful smuggler. However, he also encounters a challenging task in dealing with a disrespectful child and a possessive girlfriend along the way.
Notable Review:
Among movie characters who break the fourth wall, Faustão stands out as a favorite on Letterboxd. Let’s continue our exploration of this film.
16. Color of Victory (2024)
In the case of the film “Color of Victory,” there’s a wide range of opinions among viewers. With over 400 half-star ratings and 800 five-star ratings, it seems that this Turkish soccer team-focused movie has left quite an impact. However, when we translate these reviews through Google Translate, it becomes clear that some people absolutely adore the film while others strongly dislike it.
The movie “Color of Victory” has received a broad spectrum of responses from its viewers. With 400 half-star ratings and 800 five-star ratings, it appears that this Turkish soccer team-themed film has stirred up strong feelings in people. Translating these reviews using Google Translate reveals that while some individuals are head over heels for the movie, others have a very negative opinion of it.
15. Joshua and the Promised Land (2004)
14. Cinderela Baiana (1998)
Average Rating on Letterboxd: 2.5
Description: This controversial film hails from Brazil, telling the story of a girl from a humble background who uncovers her true calling as a dancer and achieves great success. However, she refuses to let fame corrupt her and instead returns to her roots, interacting with underprivileged children and teaching them to dance. The most popular review on Letterboxd for Cinderela Baiana praises it as “one of the cinema classics, standing alongside masterpieces like The Godfather, Citizen Kane, and If I Were You 2.”
13. Double Down (2005)
As a cinephile, I must confess that when it comes to sparking heated debates amongst film enthusiasts, none can compare to the enigmatic Neil Breen, a self-proclaimed auteur who has been crafting his unique brand of cinema for the past two decades. His magnum opus, “Double Down” from 2005, is a testament to this fact. In this production, not only does he don multiple hats as writer, producer, director, and lead actor, but he also claims credit for the film’s locations and catering. Interestingly enough, there’s no one credited for lighting, makeup, or hair.
This movie, brimming with eccentric creative decisions, subpar special effects, and a commendable level of ambition, is a challenge to evaluate on a traditional zero to five-star scale. It’s no surprise, then, that all six of his films find themselves on this list. Brace yourself for the next few minutes as you’re treated to an abundance of his distinctive visage.
12. Big Shark (2023)
Discussing independent filmmakers who are self-proclaimed and sometimes debatable in their talent: Tommy Wiseau also has several films on this platform, including his latest work titled “Big Shark“, which brought him back together with his longtime friend and creative influence Greg Sestero. This movie centers around firefighters safeguarding New Orleans, although the title may be the only accurate aspect of it? The most common Letterboxd review for “Big Shark” humorously notes “Attended the film’s premiere with Tommy Wiseau present. He has a peculiar pickle-like odor.
11. I Am Here … Now (2009)
In the year 2009, Neil Breen once more takes center stage in “I Am Here … Now,” where he dons multiple hats, including writer, director, producer, editor, musical director, and even handles craft services, props, and special makeup effects. Here, he portrays “The Being,” a character from another world, embodied by Breen himself with a computer circuit board attached to his torso. This cosmic figure finds our planet less than appealing and bears a striking resemblance to Neil Breen.
10. Pass Thru (2016)
As a dedicated cinephile, I’ve come across some unique films in my time, but few have left me with such divided opinions as those directed by the enigmatic Neil Breen. His movies’ rating distribution on Letterboxd is almost a mirror image – a sea of 1-star and 5-star ratings with barely anything in between. Skimming through the reviews for his 2016 release, “Pass Thru”, I couldn’t help but notice this pattern. The film revolves around Breen as an AI from the future, tasked with eliminating humanity’s most deplorable members to pave the way for a utopian future. If only he and “The Being” could meet!
9. The Room (2003)
Typical Letterboxd Rating for “The Room”: 2.6
Hey there, Tommy Wiseau! Even though Neil Breen might have more movies on this list, none from the 21st century seem to be as divisive as “The Room,” Wiseau’s peculiar masterpiece about a man who adores playing with a football and experiences betrayal by his fiancée and best friend. Although “The Room” is often found on lists of the worst films ever made, it has also been selling out midnight screenings across the country for over a decade now, and has spawned countless memes and GIFs. And check out that stark contrast between the low and high ratings on Letterboxd. You’re causing quite the rift in opinions there, Lisa!
8. Ratatoing (2007)
In a different phrasing:
7. Cade: The Tortured Crossing
In this rendition, the average Letterboxd score for Neil Breen’s latest masterpiece (which is actually a sequel to one of his previous works), is 3.0. This film introduces Breen’s unique pair of protagonists who find themselves embroiled in a power struggle concerning the patients at a psychiatric hospital. As usual, Breen delivers a mix of his signature conspiracies, messianic fantasies, and somewhat peculiar green screen effects. Amazingly, this movie received five stars from more than 1350 users on Letterboxd!
Or in a simpler form: Neil Breen’s latest sequel, with a score of 3.0 on Letterboxd, features his signature characters battling over psychiatric hospital patients while incorporating conspiracies, messianic fantasies, and green screen effects. Remarkably, it received five stars from over 1350 users!
6. Wizard So So: Fun Magical Adventure (2008)
I can’t help but wonder if Letterboxd might be pulling our legs with this movie. The reviews for it are so outlandish that they seem almost too good to be true. For instance, a film titled “Wizard So So: Fun Magical Adventure” being described as “sickening” and comparing it to watching someone’s sexual kinks is just bizarre. It makes me question if this movie really exists or if it’s part of some elaborate prank.
5. Twisted Pair (2018)
In this instance, let’s rephrase the given text in a more conversational and engaging manner:
4. Un Buen Dia (2010)
In the realm of film critique, I’ve come across a comparison that describes this movie as the “Argentine counterpart of ‘The Room.'” This comparison underscores the fact that cinema transcends borders and speaks a universal language. Admittedly, such a description has piqued my curiosity and made me eager to watch it myself.
3. Cool Cat Saves the Kids (2015)
Title Analysis: Average Letterboxd Rating: 2.3
This film has gained notoriety, with YouTube videos like “The World’s Worst Children’s Movie.” Movies vying for this dubious title often spark a diverse range of opinions. For instance, the reactions to Cool Cat Saves the Kids span from “This is the pinnacle of cinema!” to “Even superior to Cats.“.
2. Fateful Findings (2013)
In simpler terms, the film “Fateful Findings” by Neil Breen, released in 2013, marked a significant, though hard to define, breakthrough. This peculiar movie tells the story of a writer-turned-hacker (played by Breen) who stumbles upon a vast government conspiracy. Interestingly, the audience responses on Letterboxd for this film form an almost U-shaped graph in terms of ratings, with one review that encapsulates both extremes simply stating “Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh”.
1. Love on a Leash (2011)
Five-Star Raves For Horrible Movies on Letterboxd
Artemis Fowl
The Avengers
Battlefield Earth
Cats
“I just re-watched this movie for the fifth time, calling it the ‘Film of the Century.’
DISCLAIMER: This film is suitable only for those who desire to pierce the radiant fabric separating realities and confront the raw essence of divinity, while simultaneously dissociating from their physical existence. It caters perfectly to the cinephile who not only yearns to be without a body, but loathes the very idea of navigating one.”
This movie I watched for the fifth time is often called the ‘Film of the Century.’ However, it’s important to note that this film appeals only to those who seek to penetrate the shimmering barrier dividing realities and confront the raw essence of deity, while also detaching from their physical selves. It is an ideal choice for film enthusiasts who not just wish to be without a body, but actively despise the notion of controlling one.)
Catwoman
Among the most impactful movies I’ve ever encountered throughout my life. Since I was just five years old, I’ve watched this film at least 57 times, allowing me to provide a comprehensive and impartial review as it has never failed to impress! Regrettably, as I grew older, I began to comprehend why Halle received a Razzie award; however, this does not diminish the fact that it remains an extraordinary work of art. The jewelry store scene itself is proof enough of its artistic merit.
Date Movie
Dirty Grandpa
Imagine a film featuring Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Dustin Hoffman as middle-aged buddies, frequenting strip clubs and casinos! Such an idea seems hilarious and would undoubtedly become legendary if brought to life!
Dragonball Evolution
Fantastic Four
Foodfight!
If something seems unclear, that’s alright. It’s just a part of our human nature to seek understanding. There’s no need to fret over it.
Gigli
You might think this website labels the movie as a waste of time filled with cowards who blindly follow the negative reviews, claiming it’s a mediocre production to be avoided. However, a more insightful perspective would see it as an intriguing display of madness, with multiple Academy Award winners delivering mind-boggling performances before mysteriously disappearing. Dismissing Gigli as bad is easy, like your friend who criticizes sports without knowing much about them. But truly appreciating Gigli, acknowledging its flaws yet seeing it as a unique cinematic experience, is the enlightened path.
Going Overboard
The Hottie & the Nottie
Jack and Jill
Which actor does Pacino recall spending screen time with more affectionately: Kevin Spacey or Jared Fogle? An outstanding movie, I’d rate it five stars!”
OR
“Who does Pacino cherish more his shared screen time with: Kevin Spacey or Jared Fogle? A fantastic film, definitely worthy of five stars!”
Both options convey the same meaning as your original sentence while being rephrased in a more natural and easy-to-read manner.
Jaws: The Revenge
The Last Airbender
This movie is a true masterpiece, with a captivating storyline and well-developed characters – at least according to my brother who recently watched it. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen it myself yet.
The Love Guru
Mac and Me
Watching this film moved me deeply due to the heartwarming bond between the young protagonist and the alien character, who were quite different from one another. It’s an excellent choice for children as it offers valuable lessons about friendship, inspiration, and intrigue.
Madame Web
This blaze of ridiculous chaos is the funniest thing I’ve ever witnessed in my entire life. The sequence where she gets stuck in the car that plunges into the Hudson was edited with an incredible 32 cuts, all within a mere two minutes. This was truly impressive and iconic. The dialogue was so hilariously bad. I couldn’t help but laugh until I cried. There was someone sitting next to me who took it very seriously and gave me a disapproving glare when I burst out laughing at her reaction upon realizing her mother cared for her. Ezekiel is undoubtedly the funniest character/villain in any movie ever made. His dialogue was the best part of the whole thing. His voice was just silly beyond belief. For a moment, I thought the mother’s name was Charlotte, but it turned out they had changed it to Charlotte Webb. A baby even started crying during the climax and ending of the film.”
“In short, this was an incredible experience.
The Master of Disguise
This movie is fantastic, a timeless classic! I adore its brevity; it’s barely the length of a feature film, and yet half of it consists of opening and closing credits. The world-building is surprisingly excellent, despite the protagonist dressing up as a heap of trash and a human turtle. It seems to be the root of all my problems and has undoubtedly left its mark on me during my childhood. What an awful, wonderful movie! Destiny, destiny, destiny, destiny.
Meet the Spartans
Among the films I enjoy watching without a hint of irony, one stands out as a favorite. Incidentally, the main actor in it is my relative. Unfortunately, he hasn’t responded to any of my messages yet. I’d appreciate it if you could pass on my message, Sean. I’m starting to get a bit antsy.
Mortal Kombat: Annihilation
The entire film is fantastic, but the final 20 minutes are exceptional, bordering on a humorous adult-themed version of the original at times. I mean this in a positive manner. This movie easily surpasses all other MK films for me.
Movie 43
As a devoted fan, I’d rephrase that sentence to:
“I was astonished to learn that Hugh Jackman had an interactive moment with a newborn baby’s head, Rihanna revealed something personal about herself, and Chris Pratt reportedly has an unusual fascination related to bathroom habits.”
This way, the language remains clear and easy to understand while maintaining a first-person perspective as a fan.
North
The Room
Tonight I found an excellent method for enjoying THE ROOM: With someone who hasn’t seen it before and is completely unaware of its content. Their responses to the chaos, especially during the early scenes, were truly precious. On social media, I shared a shout-out about this experience.
Superbabies: Baby Geniuses 2
Super Mario Bros.
Swept Away
I’m at a loss for words, but if ‘Gigli’ had earned five stars from me, then I suppose it’s only fitting that I award this mediocre work the same rating – 🥴
365 Days
Regardless of what others may think, I believe this movie is fantastic. As a Polish woman, it motivated me to experience adventure, go shopping, and explore intimate relationships.
Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey
At a Fathom Events screening, I witnessed the film becoming unbearable early on as Mr. Winnie violently handled Chris, causing the projector to malfunction. As a result, I received two free passes to watch any movie in the future. The last time such an incident occurred for me was during Kazaam; quite a memorable experience!
During a Fathom Events presentation, the movie turned terrible when Mr. Winnie roughly handled Chris, causing the projector to malfunction and ultimately shut down. In return, I received complimentary tickets to see any film of my choice in the future. The last time something like this happened was back during Kazaam – quite the cinematic adventure!
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2025-01-14 03:41