Chris Hemsworth’s Underrated Thriller Becomes a Top 3 Streaming Hit, 11 Years After Disastrous Box Office Run

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Chris Hemsworth became a major star after playing Thor in the Marvel movies, and that success allowed him to work with some of Hollywood’s best directors. Beyond the Marvel films, he’s collaborated with directors like Ron Howard and Paul Feig, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He also worked with Michael Mann on the cyber-thriller Blackhat. While the film didn’t do well in theaters when it came out, it’s since become popular with audiences on streaming platforms.

According to streaming data from FlixPatrol, the movie Blackhat is currently the third most popular title on HBO Max. It’s only behind The Damned and Sinners, and surprisingly, it’s even more popular than One Battle After Another, which many expect to be nominated for Best Picture.

Why Blackhat Is a Big Hit on Streaming

Michael Mann is known for acclaimed films like Heat, The Insider, and Collateral, so there was a lot of anticipation when he teamed up with Chris Hemsworth for Blackhat. Sadly, the movie isn’t considered one of Mann’s best works. It received a low score of 33% on Rotten Tomatoes and earned only $19.6 million worldwide, making it a disappointment both critically and commercially. Despite this, Blackhat does have its fans, and some critics even ranked it among the best films of 2015.

The mixed reactions to the film likely fueled its recent increase in popularity on streaming platforms. Because opinions about Blackhat are so varied, it’s piqued the curiosity of viewers searching for something to watch at home. Streaming makes it easier to try out a divisive movie – you don’t have to commit to a full night out like you would for a theatrical release. While reviews may have discouraged people from seeing Blackhat in theaters, now viewers are more open to watching it and forming their own opinions.

While not considered one of Michael Mann’s best films, Blackhat still has some good qualities. Chris Hemsworth’s star power – boosted by the recent excitement around the Avengers: Doomsday trailers – definitely draws viewers in. Beyond that, the story itself is worthwhile. People might have different opinions on how well the story is told, but the film’s themes about cybersecurity and hacking feel particularly relevant today, as technology becomes increasingly important and complex. It’s an entertaining and thought-provoking premise that reflects current global issues.

In Blackhat, Michael Mann explores some interesting concepts, and even when they don’t fully succeed, his ambition is still admirable. As with all his films, he aimed for something original, combining various styles and themes into an engaging story. While those involved would have hoped for immediate success, they can be pleased that the film has found viewers through home video releases.

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2026-02-03 19:10