Best Modern Cult Classic Films

In Recent years, Cult cinema has become an important part of my film diet. I grew up watching films that are now considered cult classics, but at the time were underappreciated for many different reasons. To earn the title of a ‘Cult Classic’ the film must have been underappreciated at the time of its release, but in recent years has garnered attention and become respected. Over the past few years, many films fitting this description have made their way to cinemas and for whatever reason have flopped at the box office or been underappreciated from a critical perspective. Today I want to talk about some of those films. Here are my favorite cult classic films from recent years:

The Empty Man (2020) – Whilst not receiving cult classic status as of yet and being the most recent entry in this list, David Prior’s 2020 horror flick ‘The Empty Man’ has stayed with me since I first saw it. The film is filled with thought-provoking drama, well-crafted suspense, and beautiful shot composition. The film is profound and unique and is unlike anything else in the genre. Sure, it borrows tropes, but from a narrative perspective, this film is wholly original. I hope this film gets the respect it deserves and with a strong campaign on social media with fans advocating its induction into ‘cult classic’ status, I could see this happening sooner rather than later.

Buy The Empty Man on DVD Here

Slither (2008) – James Gunn’s fore into the horror genre with 2008’s ‘Slither’ proved to be one for the ages. This film is bizarre, hilarious , and at times downright disgusting. All of these elements culminate to create one of my favorite cult-classic films in the genre. I adore this film. It has great practical effects, a great cast of characters, and a fun b-movie premise that will appease fans of 1980s cinema and those wanting something a little different.

Buy Slither on Blu-ray Here

Scott Pilgrim Vs The World (2010) – Edgar Wright had already made a splash with the first two entries in his cornetto trilogy with ‘Shaun of The Dead’ and ‘Hot Fuzz’. Both of these films experienced success in the UK but failed to make a splash stateside. In 2010, Wright attempted a more mainstream affair with his adaptation of the classic manga, ‘Scott Pilgrim Vs The World’. The film received critical acclaim but failed to catch fire at the box office. Over the years the film has received a second chance from moviegoers, with fans now adoring the film and rating it quite highly. It is a film I revisit quite often and a deserving entry in this list.

Buy Scott Pilgrim Vs The World on DVD Here

 The Thing (1982) – John Carpenters 1982 cult classic ‘The Thing’ was disregarded upon release with many moviegoers dismissing the film due to its blood and gore effects, deeming it too violent for audiences. However, since the release of the film, it is now regarded as one of the best science-fiction/horror films of all time and a personal favorite of mine. This film is a masterclass in suspense. Filled with memorable moments, fantastic visual effects, and a great cast of characters. This film is the definition of a cult classic.

Buy The Thing on DVD Here

Blade Runner (1982) – Another film from 1982, Ridley Scott’s ‘Blade Runner’ was panned upon release by critics and became a major box office disaster for Warner Bros. The film did not appeal to mainstream audiences, but now since its release, the film has received a huge cult following. The neo-noir themes of the film were widely criticised upon release, as they did not appeal to the masses, however, over time the film has aged well, like a fine wine. The film's mystery, theological approach, and memorable characters make it one of the most underappreciated films of all time.

Buy Blade Runner on 4K UHD Here

These cult classic films are great examples of how films can take time to garner the appreciation they deserve. These films show that time can age a film in many different ways. The films over this time can take on new meanings, can adapt to changing political and social landscapes to remain relevant, thought-provoking, pieces of art. I believe these five films are among some of the greatest cult classics of all time. All these films are available to purchase from Sanity both in-store and online today.

Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here