Tom Hanks, a celebrated actor and filmmaker, finds himself looking back almost thirty years after his directorial debut with *That Thing You Do!* in 1996. As the film has transitioned into a beloved cult classic, Hanks has undergone a process of reflection not just on the film itself, but on the broader experiences of creating art for public consumption. His latest remarks on the *Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend* podcast reveal insights into the often perplexing dynamics between a creator, their work, and the audience’s reception.
Hanks humorously mused about the unpredictability of critical reception. He vividly recalled how the opinions of critics swing wildly—one moment a film is hailed as groundbreaking, and the next it is derided as forgettable. This fluctuating landscape can dishearten even the most seasoned creators. He humorously illustrated this with a darkly comedic reflection on the emotional impact of mixed feedback, demonstrating an ability to laugh at the absurdity of the critical process. This insight reflects a common sentiment among artists: that criticism can feel both personal and arbitrary, often dependent on variables beyond an artist’s control.
As time moves on, the vibrancy of a film or any art piece can take on new life or fade into obscurity. Hanks expressed his belief that the passage of time can dramatically transform a work’s significance. What might have been dismissed upon release could gain a new resonance in the present, capturing the hearts of new generations. Conversely, what was once critically acclaimed can grow stale, having lost relevance. This observation is particularly true for *That Thing You Do!*, which has become an endearing fixture in pop culture despite its initial mixed reviews.
Hanks poignantly articulated that the film ultimately exists beyond any labels of success or failure. He acknowledged the idea that art should be free from the finite judgments of critics—boxing it into categories of “hit” or “flop.” Instead, it should be celebrated for its unique qualities, able to live and breathe on its own merits. This perspective is empowering for artists, reminding them that the value of their work can evolve, and it might resonate differently over time.
In a rather candid moment, Hanks recalled a particular critic who initially criticized *That Thing You Do!* but later deemed it a ‘cult classic.’ His reflections touch on an inherent irony in the critical realm—how opinions can shift as cultural contexts change. This revelation reveals the world of criticism as a fickle one, where ideas about what constitutes “good” or “bad” are continuously in flux.
Through his experiences, Hanks has maintained a firm belief in the right of all artists to create and for art to flourish in unexpected ways. He recognizes that the path of filmmaking resembles a carnival—full of surprises, disappointments, and triumphs. The essence of what he shared is a testament to the resilience required in creative professions. Ultimately, *That Thing You Do!* serves as a reminder that even amidst mixed reviews and cycle of public opinion, the legacy of art can transcend the ephemeral nature of critique.
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