The Big Lebowski (1998)

Joel and Ethan Coen's noir-comedy, starring Jeff Bridges as 'The Dude,' earned only $46 million at the box office but has since spawned over 30 annual Lebowski Fest celebrations globally. With an 80% Rotten Tomatoes score, its layered humor and quotable dialogue have made it a lasting phenomenon, proving that initial modest earnings don't define true comedic impact.