when it comes to movies, i’m a big fan of keeping expectations as low as possible. there’s something especially unsatisfying about heading into one of those movies that’s been graced with rave reviews, endless publicity, and rabid audience approval, only to emerge completely underwhelmed. the tree of life comes to mind.

of course, when your expectations are permanently grounded, b-movies can sometimes look like motion picture masterpieces. i know this because i’ve developed a serious thing for bad movies over the years. i’m talking everything from sleazy, poorly-acted grindhouse fare to schlocky sob stories of the lifetime network variety. you know the stuff that’s left over on netflix instant after all the titles with any name recognition whatsoever have been watched? i consider that my personal goldmine. i don’t know anyone who shares my passion for box office flops, so it’s more of a solo hobby, but i still take it pretty seriously. after all, there are so many bad movies out there—simply bad, without the right amount of levity or camp to render them enjoyable—that i have to choose wisely. (more…)