10 Huge Oscar-Winning Movies That Nobody Really Likes

4. Chicago (2002)

chcicago 2002 film Catherine Zeta Jones
Miramax Pictures

Oscar Wins: Best Picture, Best Actress In A Supporting Role, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, Best Sound (6)

It seems as though the only people who actually like the film adaptation of Chicago are the people who already liked Chicago to begin with. You know, established fans of the musical. Otherwise, what is there in this movie for anyone else to enjoy? How did it win Best Picture at the 2003 Academy Awards, regardless of its numerous other wins?

There are a few good numbers in Chicago, mainly in "Cell Block Tango." But even that is better viewed out of context as, like, a YouTube clip. The biggest crime committed by Chicago, you see, is that it's boring. It doesn't draw you, the characters are entirely unlikeable, and director Rob Marshall doesn't seem to know where to put the camera.

It doesn't have the scope or the reverence of a Best Picture winner, either. Which is presumably why you rarely ever hear anybody talk about Chicago. Even if you're thinking to yourself right now, "Hey, I like Chicago," give it another watch: you'll change your mind.

Contributor

Sam Hill is an ardent cinephile and has been writing about film professionally since 2008. He harbours a particular fondness for western and sci-fi movies.