Siskel and Ebert's Transformation About Jim Carrey: A Journey from Criticism to Cult Classic

Jim Carrey's rise to stardom wasn't without its challenges, and one of the most significant hurdles came from the iconic film critics, Siskel and Ebert. In a revealing video, Jim Carrey shares a pivotal moment in his career before the release of "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective." While performing a live gig in Chicago, Carrey's manager delivered some disheartening news: Siskel and Ebert had harshly criticized the film and his performance. The review labeled it "the worst movie ever made" and Carrey as "the worst actor ever made."

Despite this brutal critique, Carrey's resilience shone through. He mentioned having an "automatic downshift" to cope with disappointment, a trait that undoubtedly contributed to his enduring success.

The reactions to this revelation on Imgur are diverse and tell a broader story about the relationship between critics and audiences. One user points out that negative critic opinions don't always mean a movie isn't enjoyable, likening it to an overstuffed taco—messy but fun. Another user reminisces about showing "Ace Ventura" to their children, who found it zany, proving its lasting appeal.

Interestingly, several comments highlight a pattern in critic reviews of comedies. Ebert, for instance, had also disliked other now-beloved films like "Tommy Boy" and "Happy Gilmore." This disparity between critic and audience opinions is further emphasized by another user who mentions how they often don't align with Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb scores, especially for Oscar-nominated films.

One of the most compelling takes came from a user who shared their experience with "The Cable Guy," another Jim Carrey film that initially received mixed reviews but has since gained a cult following. The blend of Carrey's slapstick humor with darker themes was ahead of its time, and the user believes it would be more appreciated today.

The comments also reflect a broader cultural understanding of evolving tastes and the importance of personal preference in entertainment. One user eloquently states, "The mark of an intelligent being is the ability to change opinion based on experience and new evidence."

While Siskel and Ebert were known for their strong opinions, it's clear that their initial assessment of "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" didn't hinder Carrey's career. On the contrary, the film has become a staple of '90s comedy, beloved by many and still enjoyed by new generations. Carrey's journey from harsh criticism to iconic status serves as a testament to his talent and determination.

Jim Carrey's recount of his experience with Siskel and Ebert's review is a fascinating glimpse into the world of entertainment criticism and its impact. It also underscores the importance of resilience and the enduring power of comedy. Whether you agree with the critics or not, there's no denying the cultural impact of "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" and Jim Carrey's unique brand of humor.