Almost three decades post-release, Tom Hanks reflects on his 1996 film, “That Thing You Do!”, through a lens of nostalgia mixed with humor. Initially met with critical ambivalence, the film has since garnered a dedicated fanbase, earning its place in cinema’s pantheon of cult classics. While Hanks candidly recognizes the polarized reception from its first audience, he firmly asserts the film’s enduring charm has transcended time, inviting a fresh perspective that often eludes immediate recognition during a film’s debut.
In a conversation on the podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” Hanks cleverly encapsulates the unpredictability of film criticism. He highlights the inherently contradictory nature of reviews, where opinions fluctuate between extremes: from outright disdain to saccharine praise. Hanks recalls a particularly biting critique, juxtaposing it with the same reviewer’s later acknowledgment of the film’s cult status. This contradiction illustrates a broader truth about the film industry: as seasons change, so do the tastes and expectations of audiences. Over time, societal values shift, often allowing works that were once dismissed to emerge as relevant or beloved.
Hanks emphasizes that a film’s box office performance often pales in comparison to its eventual cultural impact. He explains how the fleeting nature of immediate commercial success can be misleading, as many films require the passage of time to find their voice in the collective consciousness. This point raises a significant question about the current landscape of film evaluation: should we measure a film’s worth based solely on initial reception, or can it also be valued for its lasting influence and ability to resonate with future generations?
Throughout the interview, Hanks employs humor to address the sometimes harsh realities of film criticism. His playful quips about the critics serve to soften the sting of their harsh reviews. For him, the “carnival” of filmmaking comes with its highs and lows, and he expresses acceptance of that risk. By referencing his own journey with “That Thing You Do!”, he finds solace in the belief that art often requires time to bloom. The jovial manner in which he engages with past criticism reveals Hanks’ mature perspective on creative vulnerability—a reality every artist must confront.
“That Thing You Do!” stars a talented ensemble cast, including Liv Tyler and Steve Zahn, and celebrates the ephemeral joys of youthful ambition and the music industry’s illuminating and often whimsical side. The film’s title track even earned nominations for prestigious awards, showcasing its artistic merit beyond its initial reception. The transition of Hanks’ film into a cult classic suggests a cyclical nature of appreciation, representative of a society seeking comfort and nostalgia in art involving simpler times. As Hanks reflects on the legacy of his work, he champions the idea that every piece of art—regardless of initial reception—has the potential to age like fine wine, yielding unexpected beauty over time.