Draw Golden Ticket: 5 Films That Save the Careers of Nearly Forgotten Actors and Bring Them Back to Fame
At one point, Hollywood turned its back on these actors — now they’re some of the biggest stars in the world.
Many dream of making it in Hollywood. But success doesn’t always last. Public scandals or false accusations can push actors out of the spotlight. Even global stars have faced sudden career decline.
These films helped bring some of them back.
Robert De Niro – Silver Linings Playbook
Robert De Niro was once a constant during awards season. But by the 2000s, he was taking roles in weak films. His reputation began to fade. That changed with Silver Linings Playbook. His supporting role earned praise and reminded everyone of his talent.
Robert Downey Jr. – Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
In the early 2000s, Downey struggled with legal issues and addiction. His career seemed finished. Then came Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. The dark comedy marked a turning point. He got sober, cleared his debts, and soon became Iron Man.
Brendan Fraser – The Whale
Fraser was once a rising star after The Mummy. But strange circumstances pushed him out of Hollywood. He disappeared from screens.
The Whale changed that. The drama marked his return and earned him his first Oscar.
Keanu Reeves – John Wick
After The Matrix, Reeves had a string of flops. His career slowed down. Nearly 15 years later, John Wick gave him a fresh start. The role led to sequels and restored his status in Hollywood.
John Travolta – Pulp Fiction
Travolta found success in the 1970s. But by the 1980s, his films kept flopping, he took on forgettable roles. Then Quentin Tarantino cast him in Pulp Fiction. The role of Vincent Vega revived his career and brought him an Oscar nomination.
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