The Rise of ‘So-Bad-It’s-Good’ Entertainment: A Post-Apocalyptic Trend?

Nearly $100 million was spent on theatrical productions in the US in 2023, despite a growing chorus of critics lamenting declining quality in mainstream entertainment. This paradox points to a fascinating shift: audiences are increasingly drawn to experiences that deliberately embrace camp, irony, and even outright “badness.” The recent buzz – and bewilderment – surrounding intentionally awkward, low-budget musicals like Radiant Vermin, a post-apocalyptic rodent-themed show, exemplifies this trend, and suggests a potential future where entertainment value isn’t about perfection, but about the shared experience of enjoying something spectacularly flawed.

Why Are We Embracing the Awkward?

For decades, entertainment strived for polish and realism. High production values, A-list actors, and meticulously crafted narratives were the gold standard. But a confluence of factors is driving a counter-movement. Social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, have normalized and even celebrated amateurism and unfiltered expression. The constant stream of highly produced content has created a sense of fatigue, leading audiences to seek out something different – something real in its imperfection.

This isn’t simply about enjoying “guilty pleasures.” It’s about active participation. “Bad” entertainment invites commentary, parody, and shared mockery. It becomes a social event, both in the theater and online. The experience isn’t about passively consuming a masterpiece; it’s about actively engaging with a spectacle and forming a community around it.

The Post-Apocalyptic Setting as a Canvas for Camp

The choice of a post-apocalyptic setting, as seen in Radiant Vermin, is particularly telling. The genre inherently allows for a degree of absurdity. When civilization has crumbled, the rules are off. This freedom allows creators to explore outlandish concepts and embrace a deliberately low-fi aesthetic without sacrificing narrative coherence (though coherence isn’t always the goal!).

Furthermore, the anxieties surrounding climate change, political instability, and societal collapse make the post-apocalyptic genre particularly resonant. But rather than offering grim realism, these productions often use dark humor and camp as a coping mechanism. It’s a way to confront existential dread with a wink and a nudge.

From ‘Rocky Horror’ to ‘Radiant Vermin’: A Historical Perspective

This phenomenon isn’t new. Productions like The Rocky Horror Show, which debuted in 1973, demonstrated the enduring appeal of camp and audience participation. However, the speed and reach of social media amplify this effect exponentially. A single viral clip can transform an obscure show into a cultural sensation. The internet allows for the rapid formation of fan communities and the dissemination of memes and parodies, further fueling the cycle.

The Future of ‘So-Bad-It’s-Good’ Entertainment

We can expect to see more productions deliberately embracing this aesthetic. Expect lower budgets, intentionally awkward performances, and narratives that prioritize spectacle over subtlety. This trend isn’t limited to theater; it’s already influencing film, television, and even video games. The rise of “ironic gaming,” where players deliberately seek out glitchy or poorly designed games for entertainment value, is a prime example.

This shift also has implications for the entertainment industry. Traditional metrics of success – critical acclaim, box office revenue – may become less important than audience engagement and social media buzz. Producers may be willing to take more risks on unconventional projects, knowing that a viral moment can be more valuable than a positive review.

The key will be authenticity. Audiences are savvy and can quickly detect cynicism. The most successful “so-bad-it’s-good” productions will be those that genuinely embrace their flaws and invite audiences to join in the fun. This isn’t about making something intentionally bad; it’s about making something bold and unapologetically itself, even if that means sacrificing polish and perfection.

What are your predictions for the future of intentionally awkward entertainment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!