In a surprising turn of events, the Razzie Awards have revealed their nominees for the most disappointing films and performances of the year. Five movies share the dubious honor of receiving the highest number of nominations—each earning six nods. These include the video game adaptation Borderlands, the controversial Joker: Folie à Deux, the Marvel production Madame Web, Francis Ford Coppola’s epic Megalopolis, and the biopic Reagan. The latter film features Jon Voight in a peculiar portrayal that has been widely criticized. Last year, the independent film Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey claimed the title of "worst picture," while Megan Fox and Jon Voight took home acting awards for less-than-stellar performances. This year's winners will be announced on March 1, just before the Academy Awards.
The announcement came on January 21, revealing an array of contenders across various categories. Among the notable entries are Borderlands, which garnered attention for its adaptation from a popular video game; Joker: Folie à Deux, a sequel to the critically acclaimed Joker; and Madame Web, a superhero film that failed to meet audience expectations. Francis Ford Coppola’s ambitious project, Megalopolis, also made the list, alongside the political biopic Reagan. In the acting categories, Jack Black, Joaquin Phoenix, Dennis Quaid, and Jennifer Lopez are among those nominated for their roles in these films. Supporting actors like Shia LaBeouf and Jon Voight, as well as actresses such as Ariana DeBose and Emma Roberts, are also in the running. Directors S.J. Clarkson, Todd Phillips, and Jerry Seinfeld are up for the worst direction award. Additionally, there are nominations for the worst screenplay and screen combo, highlighting some of the year’s most cringe-worthy collaborations.
From a journalist’s perspective, the Razzie Awards serve as a reminder that even in an industry driven by creativity and innovation, not every project can be a success. While it may seem harsh to single out these films and performances, the Razzies also offer a chance for reflection and improvement. For both creators and audiences, this annual event provides a unique opportunity to discuss what works—and what doesn’t—in cinema. Ultimately, it encourages filmmakers to strive for excellence, reminding us that failure is often a stepping stone to future triumphs.