Cult Hit Recommendation List: Something for Everyone

Streaming services have changed the nature of at-home entertainment. For better or worse, audiences now have thousands of viewing options thanks to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, HBO Max, and dozens of other websites. The more the merrier—especially for fans of cult hits. 

That’s because not all old-school networks and modern streaming giants are able to host every single film. Cult hits are viewed as a bit of a risk because they don’t reach all audiences. In fact, even hit movies and TV shows might be subject to lapsed licensing, which means they’ll eventually be taken down from the platform. 

But the cult hits that manage to find their way on streaming sites will have a longer shelf-life. Though their followings are small, they’re highly dedicated. This has given many projects a second life now that they’re on Netflix and Hulu. If you’re new to a streaming platform or you’re simply feeling bored with your options, then dive into the wild and campy world of cult hits. 

We’ve listed out a few of our favorites across different genres below. Enjoy!

Drama: Rounders (1998)

Right before the online poker boom of the 2000s, Rounders took on the world of hardboiled poker strategy. Many pros today, including Andre Akkari of EPT fame, got their start playing in virtual poker rooms only a few years after Rounders was released. Some players even cite this film as helping foster their interest in the game, encouraging them to enter online qualifiers with the hopes of going pro. 

The story focuses on two poker players who drift around private and high-stakes games in New York City. The premise itself is familiar: the pair get into trouble and lean on their poker skills for help. But its genius is in its tactical approach to the game, offering viewers the chance to see real poker logic at work. Despite tons of poker coverage in pop culture, only Rounders has offered this type of realistic and analytical take on the game.

Psychological Thriller: Donnie Darko (2001)

If you’ve explored the world of cult hits, then you’ve likely come across Donnie Darko. This 2001 thriller takes a whole new angle at coming-of-age stories thanks to its dark, sci-fi themes.

The main character, Donnie Darko, must navigate a stereotypical suburban lifestyle while hiding the presence of Frank, a rabbit-like hallucination who insists the world will end.

As the plot advances, Donnie experiences sleepwalking episodes of increasing depth, all of which lead to profound discoveries. However, the end of the film sees two major deaths—one of which is swapped for the other. Sounds confusing? Don’t forget—there’s also a time-warping vortex involved.

Sports: Bloodsport (1988)

This film’s star-studded cast helped make this a standout hit upon its release. With names like Claude Van Damme and Forest Whitaker, Bloodsport took off—especially with the help of marketing, which insisted its underground Hong Kong fighting rings were based on true stories. 

Though the mixed martial arts underground fighting rings in Hong Kong were eventually debunked, this film has maintained its cult status. First, it introduced millions to the concept of mixing martial arts disciplines. Second, it showcased Van Damme at the height of his athletic prowess. Third, though the film lacked good acting, its fight choreography remains highly exciting and realistic.

Comedy: Wet Hot American Summer (2001)

Compared to other cult releases on this list, Wet Hot American Summer is one of the least known—despite its incredible cast. The film includes Bradley Cooper’s debut performance, Molly Shannon playing an overworked camp counselor, and Christopher Meloni as a deranged veteran turned camp cook. 

Other stars include Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Banks, Amy Poehler, and Michael Showalter at the start of their careers. Despite being a failure for critics and viewers upon its release, the comedy has since become a favorite in cult comedy circles. In fact, Netflix revived the film with two separate series, released in 2015 and 2017.