10 Horror Movie Flops That NOBODY Saw Coming
7. Grindhouse
When Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez announced they were creating a double-bill as a tribute to 1970s exploitation cinema, it sounded like it was going to break the bank. Not only did both filmmakers have dedicated fanbases, cinema-goers could see two movies for the price of one (which was emphasised in the promotions). And when Rodriguez's Planet Terror and Tarantino's Death Proof were well-received, it looked like the money was gonna come rolling in.
Although cinephiles knew what the directors were going for, the masses didn't get it. Many casual cinemagoers were turned off, believing Grindhouse was a one long feature rather than two flicks shown back-to-back.
Certain people understood the concept and set-up, but still didn't want to watch three hours of content. The extensive run-time limited the number of daily showings in theatres, minimising Grindhouse's profits further.
Hoping to recover, Planet Terror and Death Proof were released separately in international markets. Unfortunately, this tactic backfired for the hardcore fans who were hoping to watch a double feature with one ticket.
Grindhouse may have developed a cult-following later but it would've been nice if it got the same love when it premiered.