Tom Hanks Takes Aim at Movie Critics

In a spirited and humorous appearance on the podcast "Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend," beloved actor and filmmaker Tom Hanks took aim at movie critics, playfully dubbing them “cocksuckers.” He emphasized that the true test of a film’s value lies with time, not immediate critical reception. Hanks cited his own 1996 directorial debut, "That Thing You Do!," which faced harsh criticism yet blossomed into a cherished cult classic as the years rolled on.

The Journey of Film from Inception to Reception

"All of this stuff lives," Hanks noted, claiming that over time, people begin to regard films differently. He alluded to the old days of the film industry, hinting at the intense scrutiny each movie faced upon release. "It was like a fistfight; either you were going to make it big or you weren’t," he reflected. Hanks explained the journey of a film from inception to reception, emphasizing the emotional hurdles creators must overcome throughout.

Crossing the Rubicons of Film Making

He described the process as crossing various "Rubicons," or decisive stages. The first step is easy: loving the script when you read it. The second comes when the film is complete after a lengthy production process, and you finally see it. The audience then weighs in, marking another critical threshold, or "Rubicon," as the reviews start pouring in, which often lead to a rollercoaster of emotions for filmmakers.

The Impact of Time on Film Reception

"After that comes the box office numbers, and then a ton of time goes by when none of that stuff matters anymore," Hanks declared. He passionately argued that ultimately, movies exist in a realm untouched by the binary judgment of critics. What may have been seen as a ‘loser’ can later become revered, while past hits might fade into obscurity as time reveals their relevance—or lack thereof.

A Personal Anecdote: The Case of 'That Thing You Do!'

Hanks recounted how one particular critic had been scathing about "That Thing You Do!" when it first premiered, only to later celebrate it as a delightful film after it had developed its fanbase over the years. "All it takes is 20 years for people to see the true essence of a movie," he chuckled, underscoring the unpredictable nature of a film's legacy.

Conclusion: Embracing the Carnival of Criticism

In conclusion, Hanks accepted the cyclical criticism of the film industry as part of the creative process, saying, "That’s the carnival, that’s the contest. I’ve got faith in that.” As a testament to the unpredictability of cinema, he reminded listeners that critical acclaim is fleeting, and appreciation often matures with time.

Final Thoughts on the Evolution of Film Evaluation

As discussions about the ever-changing landscape of film continue, Hanks’ lighthearted commentary serves as a poignant reminder: in the world of cinema, the opinions of the moment might not hold true in the wider context of history. So the next time a film flops, remember – it might just be waiting for the right moment to shine!