For movie lovers, there’s nothing quite like discovering a hidden gem—a film that didn’t make waves when it was first released but has since developed a devoted following. Cult classics often defy mainstream tastes, offering something unique, quirky, or just plain unforgettable. Here’s a list of 10 underrated cult classics you’ve probably never seen but should definitely add to your watchlist:
Directed by Alex Cox, Repo Man is a bizarre blend of science fiction, punk rock, and dark comedy. Emilio Estevez stars as a young punk who becomes a repo man, only to find himself in pursuit of a mysterious car with extraterrestrial secrets. It’s a strange ride, but that’s what makes it so unforgettable.
This sci-fi adventure is as wild as its title suggests. Following the adventures of a scientist, rock star, and adventurer (played by Peter Weller), this film is packed with eccentric characters, zany plot twists, and a distinctly 80s flair. It didn’t gain much traction at the box office, but it’s become a favorite for those who appreciate offbeat humor and creativity.
Walter Hill’s gritty, neon-soaked thriller follows a gang trying to make their way home through a hostile New York City. It was criticized for its violence upon release, but over time, The Warriors found its place among fans who appreciate its stylized depiction of gang life and its unforgettable dialogue and visual style.
John Carpenter’s They Live is a biting satire on consumer culture disguised as a sci-fi action film. Starring pro wrestler Roddy Piper, it follows a drifter who discovers sunglasses that reveal the true nature of reality—aliens are secretly controlling the human race. Its social commentary, memorable one-liners, and Carpenter’s signature direction have earned it a loyal following.
Liquid Sky is a trippy, avant-garde sci-fi film set in the underground fashion scene of New York. Directed by Slava Tsukerman, the story follows a model who attracts a tiny UFO that feeds on the energy released during orgasm. It’s a strange, visually arresting film that captures the spirit of 80s counterculture like few others.
This dark comedy about a morbid young man who forms a relationship with a free-spirited elderly woman was way ahead of its time. Directed by Hal Ashby, Harold and Maude explores themes of life, death, and unconventional love. Despite initial critical and box office failure, it has since gained a dedicated fanbase for its unique perspective and heartfelt story.
Fred Dekker’s Night of the Creeps is a tongue-in-cheek homage to 50s B-movies, blending horror, sci-fi, and humor into a story about alien brain parasites that turn people into zombies. It’s a love letter to genre films that horror fans will appreciate, full of cheeky dialogue and clever nods to classic cinema.
Directed by Todd Haynes, Velvet Goldmine is a glam rock fever dream inspired by the lives of David Bowie and Iggy Pop. Ewan McGregor and Jonathan Rhys Meyers star as musicians in the glittery world of 70s rock, exploring themes of identity, fame, and artistic expression. Its lush visuals and mesmerizing soundtrack have earned it a cult following despite being overlooked at the time of release.
Robert Altman’s reimagining of the classic Raymond Chandler detective story The Long Goodbye didn’t resonate with audiences initially, but it has become a favorite among noir enthusiasts. Elliott Gould stars as a laid-back private investigator navigating a maze of mystery in 1970s Los Angeles. The film’s subversive take on the detective genre and Altman’s distinct style make it a unique watch.
William Friedkin’s Sorcerer is a tense and visually stunning remake of the French classic The Wages of Fear. It follows a group of men who undertake a perilous journey transporting nitroglycerin through the jungle. The film was overshadowed by the release of Star Wars, but its gritty atmosphere, nail-biting tension, and spectacular direction have helped it gain recognition among cinephiles.
What all these cult classics have in common is a sense of daring and a refusal to conform to mainstream expectations. They each offer something unique, whether it's in their storytelling, visual style, or thematic exploration. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a movie that’s a little outside the box, give one of these underrated gems a try—you might just discover your new favorite film.
What other cult classics do you think deserve more love? Let us know in the comments below and keep exploring the uncharted corners of cinema with us at Movie Geeks!
