The Lion King
WhenThe Lion Kingwas in production, it was actually considered an underdog within Disney.
Many of Disneys top animators even chose to work onPocahontas, leavingThe Lion Kingwith a less experienced team.
The production also faced challenges, including major story changes and uncertainty about its tone.
Titanic
The FirstStar Wars
When George Lucas was makingStar Wars, almost no one believed in it.
Even Lucasclose friends, after seeing an early cut, thought it was going to flop.
But biggest concern was Johnny Depps portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow.
Disney executives initially feared Johnny Depp’s quirky, rock star-inspired Captain Jack Sparrow was steering the character off-course.
Disney executives were horrified.Some even suggested firing Depp, fearing that his performance would ruin the movie.
WhenThe Curse of the Black Pearlhit theaters in 2003, it was a phenomenal success.
It grossed over $654 million worldwide, proving that pirate films werent dead after all.
Audiences loved Jack Sparrow, and he quickly became one of the most iconic movie characters of all time.
Elf
WhenElfwas in production, expectations were low.
However, whenElfwas released, it became a massive hit, earning over $225 million worldwide.
Titanic
Perhaps the most surprising turnaround wasTitanic, which was widelypredicted to be a box office disaster.
John Wick
WhenJohn Wickwas first announced, it wasnt expected to be a hit at all.
Many assumed it would be just another forgettable action movie.
Disney executives initially feared Johnny Depp’s quirky, rock star-inspired Captain Jack Sparrow was steering the character off-course.
The success ofJohn Wickled to an incredibly successful franchise, with each sequel earning bigger box office numbers.
