They’re Famous—But Their Movies Are Terrible: 25 Actors Who Keep Starring In Bad Movies

They’re Famous—But Their Movies Are Terrible: 25 Actors Who Keep Starring In Bad Movies

There’s something oddly comforting about watching a bad movie starring a famous face. Maybe it’s curiosity, maybe it’s nostalgia—but somehow, these stars keep finding their way into films that are more “background noise” than cinematic magic. While their talent (and paychecks) are undeniable, their film choices often make us wonder if they pick scripts blindfolded.

It’s not that these actors are bad at their craft; most of them have proven they can deliver incredible performances when given the right role. The problem is that, more often than not, they end up in projects that just don’t live up to their names.

1. Adam Sandler

Everyone knows him from his hilarious early comedies like Happy Gilmore and Billy Madison, but his recent track record tells a different story. Critics have repeatedly slammed his films for lazy writing, juvenile humor, and predictable plots. Movies like Jack and Jill and Grown Ups 2 earned some of the lowest ratings in modern cinema.

Despite the bad reviews, Sandler’s fans keep showing up to theaters and streaming his Netflix specials. His comedic timing and lovable personality carry him through even the worst scripts. Many people enjoy his goofy, no-brainer humor as a guilty pleasure.

Interestingly, when Sandler takes on serious roles like in Uncut Gems, he proves he has genuine talent. But those moments are rare. Most of the time, he sticks to formulaic comedies that make money but disappoint critics completely.

2. Nicolas Cage

Once an Oscar-winning star, Cage’s career took a wild turn into bizarre B-movies and straight-to-video releases. Financial troubles reportedly forced him to accept nearly every role offered, leading to a filmography packed with strange, low-budget projects. Films like The Wicker Man remake and Left Behind became internet memes for all the wrong reasons.

His over-the-top acting style works brilliantly in some films but feels completely out of place in others. Cage commits fully to every role, no matter how ridiculous the script. That dedication makes him both entertaining and frustrating to watch.

Fans appreciate his willingness to take risks and embrace weird characters. Critics, however, often struggle to take his recent work seriously. Still, every few years he surprises everyone with a genuinely compelling performance that reminds us why he won that Academy Award.

3. Bruce Willis

Back in the day, Willis defined action cinema with the Die Hard series and other blockbusters. But his later career became dominated by forgettable straight-to-video releases that barely made a splash. Many of these films shared similar plots, poor production values, and uninspired performances.

Reports suggested Willis was filming multiple low-budget movies back-to-back, sometimes completing several in just weeks. The quality suffered dramatically, and audiences noticed his apparent lack of enthusiasm. His performances felt phoned-in, like he was just collecting paychecks rather than choosing meaningful projects.

In 2022, his family announced his retirement due to health issues, which explained the decline. Before that revelation, fans were simply confused about why such a legendary star kept appearing in terrible films. His legacy remains strong from his golden years, but those final projects left many disappointed.

4. John Travolta

Travolta experienced one of Hollywood’s greatest comebacks with Pulp Fiction, reminding everyone of his incredible talent. Unfortunately, that resurgence didn’t last, and he soon returned to starring in forgettable thrillers and action flicks. Movies like Battlefield Earth became legendary examples of how badly a film can miss the mark.

His choices often seemed puzzling to industry observers and fans alike. Despite obvious charisma and proven acting chops, he kept selecting scripts that went nowhere. Some projects felt like vanity pieces, while others were clearly just paycheck roles.

Scientology connections and personal interests reportedly influenced some of his stranger career decisions. Gotti, for example, was a passion project that critics absolutely destroyed despite Travolta’s commitment. He remains a Hollywood icon, but his filmography is a cautionary tale about choosing quality over quantity.

5. Rob Schneider

Starting as a Saturday Night Live cast member, Schneider built a career on absurd, lowbrow comedies. Films like The Hot Chick and The Animal rely heavily on body-swap gags and crude humor. Critics consistently rank his movies among the worst comedies ever made.

His comedy style appeals to a specific audience that enjoys silly, mindless entertainment. Schneider doesn’t pretend his films are artistic masterpieces—he embraces the ridiculousness. That self-awareness doesn’t make the movies better, but it explains why he keeps making them.

Many of his projects came through his friendship with Adam Sandler, appearing in supporting roles throughout Sandler’s filmography. When given leading roles, however, the results were usually disastrous. Schneider remains active in comedy, though mostly through stand-up rather than major film releases nowadays.

6. Megan Fox

Bursting onto the scene in the Transformers franchise, Fox became an instant sensation. However, she quickly found herself typecast in visually stunning but narratively hollow blockbusters. Critics argued that directors focused more on her appearance than giving her substantial roles to showcase actual acting ability.

Her public feud with director Michael Bay didn’t help her career trajectory. After leaving Transformers, she struggled to find quality projects that challenged her as a performer. Movies like Jennifer’s Body initially flopped but later gained cult status for different reasons.

Fox has spoken openly about Hollywood’s treatment of young actresses and the limited opportunities she received. Despite undeniable screen presence and improving skills, she rarely lands roles in critically acclaimed films. Recent projects show more range, but her reputation as a blockbuster beauty remains her primary Hollywood identity.

7. Liam Neeson

After Taken became a surprise hit, Neeson reinvented himself as an action star in his fifties. But then came the copycats—endless variations of the same revenge thriller formula. Taken 2, Taken 3, Non-Stop, Run All Night, and more all blurred together into one forgettable action movie.

The plots became predictable: Neeson plays a tough guy with a particular set of skills who must save someone. Directors swapped locations and minor details, but the core remained identical. Critics grew tired of the repetition, even though audiences initially kept buying tickets.

Neeson himself has joked about the similarity between his action films, acknowledging the pattern. His earlier dramatic work in films like Schindler’s List showcased real depth and power. Nowadays, he’s mostly known for growling threats through phone calls in interchangeable thrillers that rarely earn positive reviews.

8. Jessica Alba

Starting with television success in Dark Angel, Alba seemed destined for major film stardom. Instead, she landed in a series of poorly reviewed movies that never quite clicked with audiences or critics. Fantastic Four, Good Luck Chuck, and The Love Guru all disappointed despite her committed performances.

Her screen presence and charisma were never in question—the problem was always the material. Alba consistently elevated weak scripts through sheer effort, but even talented actors can’t save fundamentally flawed projects. Hollywood seemed unsure how to properly utilize her abilities.

Eventually, Alba shifted focus to her business venture, The Honest Company, finding more success as an entrepreneur. Her acting career slowed considerably as business took priority. Looking back, it’s clear she had the talent but not the luck to land in truly great films consistently.

9. Gerard Butler

Butler broke through with 300, delivering an iconic performance as King Leonidas. Unfortunately, most of his subsequent films followed a simple formula: loud explosions, minimal plot, and Butler playing a tough guy. Olympus Has Fallen, London Has Fallen, and Geostorm all received brutal critical responses.

His movies often prioritize spectacle over substance, delivering exactly what casual action fans expect. Critics find them predictable and poorly written, but Butler’s fanbase appreciates the straightforward entertainment. He never pretends to be making art—just popcorn action flicks.

Occasionally, Butler attempts different genres like romantic comedies, but those rarely fare better with reviewers. The Ugly Truth and Playing for Keeps proved he’s more comfortable with explosions than rom-com tropes. He’s carved out a reliable niche as a B-movie action star, even if awards remain elusive.

10. Jason Statham

Statham has become the go-to guy for no-nonsense action movies packed with fight scenes and car chases. Audiences absolutely love his consistent tough-guy persona and impressive physical stunts. Critics, however, regularly dismiss his films as generic, repetitive, and lacking depth or originality.

Movies like The Transporter series, Crank, and countless others follow similar patterns. Statham plays a skilled fighter or driver who gets pulled into dangerous situations. The plots are paper-thin, existing mainly to connect action sequences together.

Despite critical indifference, Statham maintains a loyal following who appreciate his commitment to practical stunts and reliable entertainment. He knows his lane and stays in it, rarely attempting dramatic roles or comedic departures. For fans of straightforward action, he delivers exactly what they want, even if critics roll their eyes.

11. Ben Affleck

Affleck won an Oscar for screenwriting and has directed critically acclaimed films, proving his talent behind the camera. As an actor, though, his track record is surprisingly spotty. Gigli became infamous as one of the worst romantic comedies ever made, while Paycheck and Daredevil disappointed fans and critics alike.

His early 2000s choices seemed particularly questionable, leading many to write him off as a serious actor. Pairing with then-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez for Gigli was a career low point that became tabloid fodder. The film’s failure was so complete it became a punchline for years.

Affleck successfully rebuilt his reputation through directing films like Argo and Gone Baby Gone. His acting improved when he chose better projects and worked with stronger directors. Still, those early missteps remain a significant part of his Hollywood story and reputation.

12. Jennifer Lopez

J.Lo built an entertainment empire spanning music, fashion, and film, becoming a global superstar. Her movies, however, rarely impressed critics, even when they made money at the box office. Gigli, The Back-up Plan, and Monster-in-Law all received harsh reviews despite her star power.

Lopez brings undeniable charisma and work ethic to every project, but that can’t always overcome weak scripts. Her romantic comedies often feel formulaic and predictable, following tired genre conventions. Critics acknowledge her screen presence while questioning her choice of roles.

Recently, films like Hustlers showed what Lopez can do with quality material and a meaty role. That performance earned genuine praise and reminded audiences of her capabilities. Unfortunately, such opportunities have been rare throughout her acting career, with most projects prioritizing her celebrity over her craft.

13. Kevin Hart

Hart became one of the biggest names in comedy through stand-up success and relentless work ethic. His film career, however, consists mostly of shallow comedies that rely on his manic energy rather than clever writing. Ride Along 2, The Wedding Ringer, and Night School all followed predictable formulas.

Critics often note that Hart plays essentially the same character in every movie—a short, loud, energetic guy reacting to situations. The roles rarely challenge him or showcase different aspects of his abilities. His comedy style works for many viewers but feels repetitive to others.

Despite critical dismissal, Hart’s movies consistently make money, proving his commercial appeal. He’s built a brand around accessibility and family-friendly humor that resonates with broad audiences. Quality may vary, but his box office power remains undeniable, keeping producers eager to cast him in project after project.

14. Ashton Kutcher

Kutcher rose to fame on That ’70s Show and seemed poised for a strong film career. Instead, he starred in a string of forgettable romantic comedies and thrillers that critics panned. Dude, Where’s My Car?, Killers, and No Strings Attached all underperformed critically despite his likable screen presence.

His charm and comedic timing work well in television formats, but his film roles rarely gave him material worthy of those talents. Many projects felt like they were designed simply to capitalize on his celebrity rather than tell compelling stories. Critics grew frustrated watching his potential go to waste.

Kutcher found more success as a tech investor and producer than as a leading man. His business ventures proved more lucrative and fulfilling than chasing movie stardom. While he remains recognizable and successful overall, his acting filmography doesn’t reflect the career many expected.

15. Milla Jovovich

Jovovich became the face of the Resident Evil franchise, starring in all six films as the zombie-fighting heroine Alice. While visually impressive and action-packed, the movies received consistently poor reviews for weak plots and dialogue. Critics dismissed them as stylish but empty video game adaptations.

Her other science fiction projects like Ultraviolet and The Fifth Element sequel attempts followed similar patterns. Jovovich commits fully to physical roles and looks incredible doing stunts, but the scripts rarely give her depth. She excels at playing tough action heroes even when the material disappoints.

Married to director Paul W.S. Anderson, many of her films come through that professional partnership. Their collaborations prioritize visual spectacle over narrative substance, creating a specific niche in sci-fi action. Fans appreciate the commitment to practical effects and Jovovich’s dedication, even when critics shrug.

16. Vin Diesel

Diesel became synonymous with the Fast & Furious franchise, which prints money at the box office despite mixed critical reception. Outside that series, his films rarely connect with reviewers or audiences. xXx sequels, The Last Witch Hunter, and Bloodshot all flopped critically.

His deep voice and muscular presence work perfectly for action roles, but range remains limited. Diesel excels at playing tough guys with hearts of gold, yet rarely ventures beyond that comfort zone. Critics note the lack of variety in his performances and choice of projects.

The Fast & Furious films’ massive success gives Diesel financial freedom and star power, even if critical acclaim eludes him. He’s also voiced Groot in Marvel films, finding unexpected success in a role requiring minimal dialogue. His career proves that box office numbers don’t always align with critical opinion or artistic merit.

17. Katherine Heigl

Heigl found television success on Grey’s Anatomy before transitioning to romantic comedies. Unfortunately, films like The Ugly Truth, Killers, and New Year’s Eve all received brutal reviews. Critics found them formulaic, predictable, and lacking the charm needed to elevate tired genre conventions.

Her public comments about her own projects didn’t help her reputation. Heigl criticized Knocked Up despite its success, calling it sexist, which rubbed Hollywood the wrong way. Such outspokenness, combined with mediocre film choices, damaged her career trajectory significantly.

Behind-the-scenes reports labeled her difficult to work with, further limiting opportunities. Whether fair or not, those perceptions combined with poor box office returns made studios hesitant to cast her. Heigl’s career serves as a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough—relationships and reputation matter tremendously in Hollywood.

18. Sylvester Stallone

Stallone created two of cinema’s most iconic characters with Rocky and Rambo, cementing legendary status. His later career, however, became dominated by unnecessary sequels and formulaic action films. The Expendables series, while nostalgic, received poor reviews for thin plots and reliance on aging action stars.

Many of his recent projects feel like retreads of past glory rather than fresh ideas. Stallone keeps returning to Rocky and Rambo decades after those franchises peaked creatively. Critics appreciate his dedication to physical fitness and stunt work at his age but wish for better material.

Occasionally, Stallone surprises everyone with genuine dramatic performances like in Creed, earning award nominations. Those moments prove he still has acting chops when given proper direction and scripts. Unfortunately, he more often chooses paycheck roles in generic action films that tarnish his legacy.

19. Mark Wahlberg

Wahlberg’s career is wildly inconsistent, alternating between critically acclaimed dramas and terrible action thrillers. For every The Departed or Boogie Nights, there’s a Transformers: Age of Extinction or Mile 22. His choices often seem motivated by paychecks rather than artistic merit.

His action roles frequently involve him playing tough guys in forgettable, explosion-filled blockbusters. Critics note that Wahlberg often seems to be on autopilot in these projects, delivering performances without the intensity he brings to better films. The quality gap between his best and worst work is enormous.

Despite the mixed filmography, Wahlberg remains bankable and consistently works with major directors. His willingness to take risks and work in different genres keeps his career interesting, even when individual projects fail. The inconsistency makes him unpredictable—audiences never know which Wahlberg will show up.

20. Kate Beckinsale

Beckinsale became the face of the Underworld franchise, playing a vampire warrior in tight leather costumes. While visually striking, the series received consistently poor reviews for convoluted plots and weak dialogue. She returned for sequel after sequel despite critical dismissal and diminishing box office returns.

Her other action projects like Total Recall remake and Van Helsing followed similar patterns of style over substance. Beckinsale brings elegance and physical commitment to these roles, but the scripts rarely give her opportunities to showcase dramatic range. Critics wish she’d choose more challenging material.

Early in her career, Beckinsale showed dramatic potential in period pieces and literary adaptations. Those opportunities dried up as she became typecast in action franchises. She remains talented and capable, but her filmography doesn’t reflect the range she demonstrated in earlier, more prestigious projects.

21. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Johnson became Hollywood’s highest-paid actor by starring in safe, family-friendly blockbusters that make tons of money. Critics, however, note that his films follow extremely predictable formulas with minimal risk-taking. Skyscraper, Rampage, and Red Notice all received mediocre reviews despite huge budgets.

His charm and likability carry weak scripts further than they deserve, but that can’t compensate for lazy writing. Every Rock movie feels designed by committee to appeal to the widest possible audience. The result is entertaining but forgettable films that rarely leave lasting impressions.

Johnson’s social media presence and personal brand are more impressive than his actual filmography. He’s mastered the art of selling movies through personality rather than quality. While commercially successful, his career lacks the critical acclaim that usually accompanies such massive stardom and box office dominance.

22. Melissa McCarthy

McCarthy broke through with Bridesmaids, earning an Oscar nomination and proving her comedic brilliance. Unfortunately, many of her subsequent films failed to capture that magic. Tammy, The Happytime Murders, and Life of the Party all disappointed critics with crude humor and weak scripts.

Her comedy often relies on physical gags and loud performances that work better in some contexts than others. When paired with strong directors and writers, McCarthy shines brilliantly. But when given creative control or weaker material, the results can be painfully unfunny and one-note.

Projects like Can You Ever Forgive Me? showcased her dramatic range and earned critical praise. Those opportunities remain rare compared to broad comedies that don’t utilize her full talents. McCarthy clearly has ability beyond slapstick, but Hollywood keeps putting her in similar roles that yield diminishing returns.

23. Channing Tatum

Tatum found success with Magic Mike and 21 Jump Street, showing both dramatic depth and comedic timing. Many of his other projects, however, landed with a thud critically. G.I. Joe films, White House Down, and Jupiter Ascending all received harsh reviews despite his committed performances.

His likability and dance skills make him naturally watchable, but that can’t save fundamentally flawed projects. Tatum often chooses big-budget spectacles that prioritize effects over storytelling. Critics appreciate his work ethic while wishing he’d be more selective about scripts.

When working with talented directors like the Coen Brothers or Steven Soderbergh, Tatum delivers excellent performances. Left to his own devices or in generic action films, the results are far less impressive. His career demonstrates how important good material is, even for naturally charismatic performers.

24. Shia LaBeouf

LaBeouf started as a Disney Channel star before landing Transformers and becoming a blockbuster fixture. His career took bizarre turns with performance art projects, public meltdowns, and increasingly erratic behavior. Films like Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and Transformers sequels were critically panned.

His personal controversies overshadowed his acting work, making it difficult to separate the performer from the tabloid headlines. LaBeouf’s intensity works brilliantly in some indie films but feels misplaced in big-budget franchises. Critics never quite knew what to make of his unpredictable career choices.

Recent years brought accusations of abuse and troubling behavior that further complicated his Hollywood standing. While capable of powerful performances in films like Honey Boy, his off-screen actions and damaged reputation limit opportunities. LaBeouf’s career serves as a cautionary tale about talent derailed by personal demons and poor decisions.

25. Owen Wilson

Wilson’s distinctive voice and easygoing charm made him a comedy staple for decades. Unfortunately, many of his films are lightweight, forgettable comedies that critics dismiss immediately. Drillbit Taylor, Hall Pass, and The Internship all received poor reviews despite his likable presence.

His collaborations with Wes Anderson showcase his dramatic capabilities and comedic subtlety. Outside those projects, Wilson often appears in broad comedies that don’t challenge him creatively. The same relaxed persona appears in movie after movie, creating a sense of repetition.

Wilson seems content making accessible, family-friendly comedies rather than chasing critical acclaim. His career prioritizes steady work over artistic ambition, which is a valid choice but results in an underwhelming filmography. He remains beloved by audiences even if his movies rarely impress reviewers or win awards.