Unexpected Masterpieces: Movies We Thought We'd Hate But Ended Up Loving
- S1E5
- 1:11:27
- April 3rd 2025
Sometimes, the biggest surprises can come from the films we never expected to enjoy. In this episode of The Films That Ruined Us, we dive into those unlikely gems that not only challenged our low expectations but also made a lasting impact on how we see the world. Miles reveals how Peter Jackson’s King Kong (2005)—a film he initially dismissed—ultimately won him over with its grand storytelling and surprising emotional resonance. Meanwhile, Katy explains why she avoided The Shawshank Redemption for years, only to discover an inspiring tale of perseverance, hope, and humanity that completely changed her outlook on life. Join us as we celebrate these unexpected masterpieces and explore how they remind us never to judge a movie by its poster.
The Films That Ruined Us
Has a film ever ruined your life? Have you ever emerged from the cinema so obsessed with the movie you’ve just seen that it’s scarred you, positively or negatively? Filmmaker Miles Watts and culture queen Katy Cowan dive into the movies that have made the deepest impact on their lives (not Deep Impact) for better or worse, from kids’ films to violent horror, and examine in nauseating detail why these particular movies have ruined them.
Miles Watts is a filmmaker, writer, and director with a passion for cult cinema and storytelling. Best known for his work on indie horror-comedies like Zomblogalypse, Miles has spent years crafting narratives that blend humour with the macabre. As co-host of The Films That Ruined Us, he dives deep into the movies that shaped, scarred, and obsessed him, bringing a filmmaker’s perspective to the cinematic chaos.
Katy Cowan is a journalist, writer, and founder of Creative Boom, one of the UK’s leading online magazines for creatives. With a deep love for storytelling and a sharp eye for culture, Katy has spent her career championing artists, designers, and filmmakers. A lifelong cinephile, she brings her signature wit and insight to The Films That Ruined Us, unpacking the movies that left a lasting (and sometimes traumatic) impact.