Tim Robey’s new book, "Box Office Poison: Hollywood’s Story in a Century of Flops," takes a humorous look at some of the biggest failures in film history. Released on March 24, 2025, the book critiques 25 movies that not only lost money but also exposed how out of touch Hollywood can be with the American public.
Robey highlights films like "Pluto Nash," which cost $100 million to make but only brought in $7 million at the box office. This tragic tale of failure is just one among many that Robey recounts, blending sadness with humor. He points out that some of these films, although disastrous at the time, have gained a cult following or are now considered classics. For example, "Intolerance" by D.W. Griffith is now viewed as a seminal work despite its initial financial loss.
The author reflects on how many of these flops emerged during the decline of the studio system, where strong leadership was replaced by directors who often misjudged audience tastes. Robey discusses the chaos behind the scenes, such as the production of "Babe: Pig in the City," which involved a massive cast and crew but still failed to resonate with viewers.
Robey’s analysis is not just about the films themselves but also about the people behind them. He examines the egos of directors like Oliver Stone, whose ambitious vision for "Alexander" led to a costly flop. The book shows how these failures often stemmed from a disconnect between the filmmakers and the audience.
Overall, "Box Office Poison" offers a witty and insightful look at Hollywood’s missteps. Robey’s engaging writing style makes it an enjoyable read for film lovers and casual readers alike. His passion for cinema shines through as he recounts these cautionary tales, reminding us that even the biggest names in Hollywood can get it spectacularly wrong.