Context:

A recent online discussion highlights 23 films perceived as pretentious or overly ambitious, attempting to convey profound messages yet ultimately falling short. Participants on Reddit shared their opinions on movies like 'Lucy' and 'Don't Worry Darling,' critiquing them for convoluted plots or weak character development. This sentiment reflects a broader cultural critique of films that prioritize style or intellectualism over coherent storytelling and relatable characters. As viewer expectations evolve, filmmakers may need to balance artistic ambition with clarity and substance to avoid being labeled as 'trying too hard.'

Dive Deeper:

• 'Lucy' received criticism for its absurd premise about humans using 100% of their brains, leading to convoluted storytelling and cringe-worthy dialogue.

• 'Oppenheimer' was described as a 'Wikipedia page movie,' where the characters’ heavy themes felt forced and resulted in a disconnect from the audience.

• 'Don't Worry Darling' was noted for its potential, which many felt was wasted due to poor character development and casting choices, particularly regarding Harry Styles.

• 'Crash,' which won an Oscar for Best Picture, was ironically critiqued for its shallow portrayal of complex social issues, overshadowing more deserving films.

• The 'Now You See Me' films were called out for their premise of smart thieves using illusions, yet the actual plot relied on magical elements that undermined the narrative's logic.

• 'Tenet' faced backlash for its heavy exposition, with viewers feeling the film insulted their intelligence through overt explanations of its complex concepts.

• 'Don't Look Up' was criticized for its heavy-handed messaging and poorly developed characters, suggesting a failure to engage the audience effectively.