Here’s a bold statement: some of the most unforgettable movie experiences aren’t the masterpieces—they’re the disasters. Yes, we all love a cinematic triumph, but there’s a peculiar joy in watching a film so bad it’s almost good. Think cringe-worthy dialogue, baffling plot twists, and acting that makes you question humanity’s collective judgment. It’s the kind of entertainment that leaves you wondering, ‘If they could make this, what’s stopping me?’ And let’s be honest, sometimes you just need to dive into that glorious mess.
But here’s where it gets controversial: not everyone agrees. Some people—I call them ‘the purists’—avoid bad movies like the plague. They’ll only watch films with glowing reviews, missing out on the chaotic delight of a cinematic train wreck. But for the rest of us, the ones who revel in the absurd, there’s a treasure trove waiting to be unearthed.
Enter Letterboxd, the social media haven for film lovers, with its massive database of over 1 million movies. By sorting films by their lowest average scores and release years, you can uncover the absolute worst movie of every decade. That’s right—a century’s worth of cinematic disasters, neatly packaged for your viewing (dis)pleasure. And this is the part most people miss: these films aren’t just bad—they’re historically bad, earning their place in the annals of movie infamy.
I’ll admit it: I’ve only seen eight out of the ten worst-ranked films on this list, and yes, I’m slightly embarrassed. But on the bright side, I now have a roadmap for my next deep dive into the abyss of terrible cinema. Because sometimes, you just need to wallow in the absurdity of it all.
According to Letterboxd users, these are the undisputed worst movies of every decade, stretching back over a century. From cringe-worthy classics to head-scratching horrors, this list is a testament to the fact that not every film can be a winner—and that’s okay. In fact, it’s kind of perfect.
Controversial question: Are these films truly the worst, or are they misunderstood masterpieces? Do they deserve their place in the cinematic hall of shame, or should we celebrate them for their sheer audacity? Let’s debate it in the comments—I’m ready to defend (or roast) these films with you.
