John Goodman Reflects on 'Digger's' Critical and Commercial Failure
John Goodman has opened up about the critical and commercial failure of his recent film, 'Digger.' During a podcast appearance, the veteran actor revealed that the movie's prospects were severely hampered by negative reviews that emerged even before its theatrical debut. Despite a hefty production cost, 'Digger' struggled to recoup its investment, leading to substantial financial losses. Goodman, however, remains proud of his involvement, likening the experience to past collaborations that initially faced a similar reception but eventually gained appreciation.
Goodman candidly shared his feelings on the widespread condemnation of 'Digger.' He recounted how early negative buzz, including projections of dismal box office returns, effectively discouraged audiences from seeing the film. Despite the pain caused by such pre-release negativity, he stands by the project, describing his six months working on it as a positive and fulfilling experience. He considers 'Digger' a bold undertaking, confident it will eventually find its place and be remembered in the long run.
When questioned about the impact of critics' and audiences' opinions on his seasoned career, Goodman admitted that, contrary to what he once believed, these reactions still affect him. He suggested that age might have made him more sensitive to criticism, especially after investing so much effort into a film. Yet, he ultimately declared himself over the initial sting, emphasizing his pride in the work he accomplished.
Goodman further contextualized 'Digger's' rocky start by drawing a parallel to several of his earlier films with the Coen Brothers, such as 'Barton Fink' and 'The Big Lebowski.' He noted that these highly regarded works also experienced initial commercial struggles or lukewarm receptions. He highlighted that these films eventually achieved cult status and enduring popularity, suggesting that time often reveals the true value of a creative endeavor, regardless of immediate critical consensus.
'Digger,' directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, featured Goodman alongside Tom Cruise, who portrayed an oil magnate confronting an apocalyptic scenario triggered by an Antarctic drilling malfunction. Goodman played the U.S. President in the film. It garnered a mixed critical response, reflected in its Rotten Tomatoes score, and required a massive box office performance just to break even. The film's inability to meet these financial targets resulted in an estimated $250 million loss for Warner Bros., cementing its place as a significant Hollywood flop.
Despite its disastrous commercial outcome, 'Digger' found unexpected support within the entertainment industry. Several prominent figures publicly defended the movie and its star, Tom Cruise. Neil Young praised it as the finest film he had ever witnessed, while Mandy Patinkin lauded it as an "instant classic" and an unparalleled cinematic achievement. Anne Hathaway, Jane Fonda, and Ben Affleck were among others who voiced their appreciation, with Affleck particularly criticizing the public's eagerness to condemn films that take creative risks. He argued that punishing such ambitious projects would only lead to a proliferation of uninspired, formulaic cinema, advocating for the importance of daring ventures even if they occasionally falter.
The actor's reflection offers a profound insight into the volatile nature of the film industry, where critical reception can prematurely seal a movie's fate, irrespective of the passion and effort invested by its creators. Goodman's perspective underscores the enduring value of artistic integrity and the hope that, over time, truly unique works will transcend initial judgments and be recognized for their merits.
