The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle ended up being one of the biggest letdowns in movie history. Even with the powerhouses of talents like Robert De Niro, Rene Russo, and Jason Alexander, in its ensemble cast, this movie severely tanked at the box office, losing over $40 million. With even De Niro pulling off what could be his quirkiest, goofiest role ever! It seemed like De Niro’s super hit acting master class wouldn’t have also been able to help the film stand on its feet.
The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle Was a Historic Disaster!
The classic Rocky & Bullwinkle cartoon TV show had a surprising level of intelligence that not only catered to its target audience but also their parents. And it is believed to have paved the way for many modern crossover animated series, that people are fans of nowadays. However, the 2000s remake of the cartoon, The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle doesn’t particularly stand out for its brilliance, wit, or innovation. Its simplicity becomes its charm, managing to be so ‘bad’ that it circles back around to being oddly enjoyable in 2023.
But although it is an enjoyable watch now, it wasn’t in the 2000s, as from a strictly numbers and business point of view, the movie was a colossal flop, despite an outrageously star-studded cast. Not only did it lose over $40 million at the box office, but its worldwide earnings were only half its production budget, implying that with a budget of $76,000,000, the film only earned $35,129,610 according to The Numbers, which is just embarrassing.
Robert De Niro’s Charm Also Couldn’t Help the Movie!
Even though many found the film hard to enjoy, there’s thankfully a bright spot Robert De Niro’s Charm Also Couldn’t Help the Movie. Although it couldn’t save the movie back then it is what forces people to return to the movie time and again now. He brings a crazy mix of funny voices, going from yelling to squeaky speeches, it is really truly bizarre to see The Godfather actor shapeshift in this way.
His shiny hair looks like it’s made of a polished 8-ball! His monocle is a whole show on its own, as it pops out with a funny noise! A sneaky smile and a giant cigarette are what complete his comical look. Although this movie isn’t a big hit, it’s a weird and fun part of early 2000s cinema, proving that famous actors can’t always guarantee a blockbuster!
While undeniably bold and unique, the film falls short in its comedic delivery, hovering at best in the realm of mild humor. It fails to strike the chord of nostalgia among original cartoon fans craved by 90s kids.
The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle is available on STARZ to stream
