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A cult hit is born in a few different ways. A film might see little traction, or possibly even negative reviews, upon its release—only to see a second life once it hits streaming channels. Other films might fly far under the radar upon its release but quickly become a favorite for hardcore genre fans (such as horror or sci-fi).
One unique subgenre within the cult hit category is intellectual films. These films take a more in-depth approach to the subject matter, which might involve a lesser-explored topic like memory, metaphysics, statistics, and more. Regardless of the subject, a brainy cult hit delves deep into the minutiae. Unsurprisingly, this approach might prevent the film from becoming a blockbuster hit—but it will go a long way in making sure the movie sticks as a cult favorite.
Let’s take a look back at some of the most popular cult hits that take a central focus on intellectual topics.
Rounders (1998)
Anyone who enjoys playing poker has probably heard of Rounders. This cult hit was released just a few years before the online poker boom of the early 2000s, which continues today for those who play poker Pennsylvania and in other states
The film helped introduce audiences to the inner workings of Texas Hold’em as the main character, played by Matt Damon, enters into high-stakes underground games. Thanks to internal monologue, viewers can follow along as Damon strategizes his way to the top. In other words, filmmakers simplified the game of poker and highlighted what makes it so exciting to play.
Memento (2000)
Christopher Nolan isn’t a director who creates cult hits—but many would argue that his early project, Memento, fits into that category despite its critical and commercial success. The film follows one man’s journey to attempt to piece together his immediate past. The character, named Leonard, isn’t able to form new memories.
Viewers are taken on a dual-chronology journey of Leonard’s story, in which he must slowly make sense of using only the tattoos on his body. Part psychological drama and part metaphysical adventure, Memento remains a cult hit simply because it takes care and thought to follow—meaning only dedicated fans are likely to rewatch it.
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Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Similar to Memento, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is remembered for its non-linear storytelling and treatment of memories. In this story, a separated couple individually seeks out memory-erasing procedures in order to forget the other. However, the procedures don’t entirely mask their memories and the experience of love.
This film explores the complexity of wanting to forget heartbreak and the simultaneous desire to make a great relationship work. With a cast of unique characters and a roster of star actors, this film was also a commercial and critical success. However, it’s the film’s highly unique exploration of love and pain that has made it a cult classic. Just like Memento, it stands out for its complex topics.
Moneyball (2011)
Let’s close this list off with one of the brainiest cult hits. Moneyball, similar to Rounders, takes a hard look at numbers. In this case, it’s all about sports statistics. The film follows an autobiographical book that was released in the early 2000s. This book helped spur sports statistics and, specifically, SABER metrics in professional baseball.
The film is accordingly brainy. Just like Rounders helped explain the game of poker and what makes it so compelling, Moneyball filmmakers went above and beyond to showcase what makes hard stats so appealing to sports fans.
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