Angelina Jolie is back in the spotlight, captivating audiences with a surprising hit on Netflix. The streaming giant’s No. 1 movie is an overlooked romantic comedy starring the iconic actress, Life or Something Like It, which has surged to the top of UK charts despite being panned by critics upon its 2002 release. Fans are flocking to this “nonsense” film, as some reviewers called it, proving that Jolie’s star power endures. This blog dives into the latest buzz around this unexpected revival, explores why viewers are hooked, and reflects on Jolie’s unmatched ability to draw crowds, even when critics turn their noses up.
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Why Life or Something Like It Is Winning Over Angelina Jolie Fans
The rom-com follows Jolie as Lanie Kerrigan, a driven Seattle reporter who reevaluates her life after a psychic predicts her imminent death. Critics slammed the film, with a 28% Rotten Tomatoes score and harsh words like “miserable mess.” One reviewer even quipped it “makes the prospect of death less daunting.” Ouch. Yet, Netflix viewers are undeterred. Since its recent debut on the platform, it’s climbed to the fifth most-watched movie in the UK, a testament to Jolie’s magnetic appeal.
What’s the draw? Fans on social media, particularly X, praise Jolie’s charm and the film’s lighthearted vibe. One user humorously noted that Jolie, who’s often said she’s unsure about rom-coms, dominates Netflix’s Top 10 with her only foray into the genre. The movie’s life-affirming message—stop and smell the roses—resonates with audiences seeking feel-good escapism. Despite a $40 million budget and a mere $16.9 million box office haul, its Netflix resurgence shows that sometimes, viewers just want to see Angelina Jolie shine.
| Movie Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 2002 |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 28% |
| Budget | $40M |
| Box Office | $16.9M |
| Netflix Rank | No. 5 (UK) |
Angelina Jolie’s Rom-Com Legacy: A Rare Gem
Jolie is known for intense roles in films like Girl, Interrupted or action-packed blockbusters like Tomb Raider, but rom-coms? They’re a rarity in her repertoire. Life or Something Like It stands alone, making its Netflix success all the more intriguing. Fans on X call it “inspiring,” with some admitting they’d never heard of it before its streaming debut. This obscurity adds to its charm—a hidden gem unearthed by Jolie’s loyal fanbase.
The film’s revival sparks a broader question: why do audiences embrace movies critics hate? For one, Jolie’s performance is undeniably captivating. Even detractors admit she’s appealing, bringing depth to a predictable script. Plus, the early 2000s nostalgia—think flip phones and chunky highlights—hits a sweet spot for viewers craving simpler times. It’s not high art, but it’s fun, and sometimes that’s enough.
Beyond the Screen: Jolie’s Enduring Influence
Angelina Jolie’s pull extends far beyond this rom-com. Recent news highlights her ongoing impact, from humanitarian work to legal battles. In August 2024, her father, Jon Voight, made headlines urging Brad Pitt to “end the nonsense” in their ongoing dispute over a $164 million French estate. While this drama unfolds off-screen, Jolie remains a cultural force, balancing motherhood, advocacy, and a career that spans decades.
Her ability to draw viewers to a panned movie speaks to her unique star power. Unlike many actors tethered to specific genres, Jolie transcends categorization. Whether she’s playing a war hero, a villain, or a quirky reporter, audiences show up. This Netflix surge reminds us that critics don’t always get the final say—fans do.
What’s Next for Jolie and Netflix?
Could this rom-com’s success signal more Jolie projects on Netflix? The platform has a knack for reviving forgotten films, and with Life or Something Like It trending, it’s clear there’s demand for her work. Rumors swirl about her next moves, but for now, fans are content rediscovering her past roles. If you haven’t watched it yet, fire up Netflix and see what the fuss is about. You might just find yourself charmed by Jolie’s rom-com turn.
This movie’s journey from flop to streaming hit is a reminder: sometimes, a film just needs the right moment to shine. For Angelina Jolie, that moment is now. Her fans aren’t just watching—they’re celebrating a star who defies expectations, one quirky role at a time. So, grab some popcorn, hit play, and let Jolie remind you to live a little. After all, who knows what tomorrow holds?