1. ​The Waterboy (1998)

I have so much, yet simultaneously nothing, to say about Adam Sandler’s The Waterboy. Sandler unwittingly (as far as I know) mocks a stutter and it seems as though they wanted that to be the film’s funny bone, and when that didn’t succeed, there wasn’t much else holding this movie up. That’s probably why it has a 34 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

2. ​Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

Jim Carrey notoriously has a few poorly-rated films under his belt, but Ace Ventura: Pet Detective may take the cake. One of the reasons fans love Carrey is certainly for his range of facial expressions, but it has a time and place, and this film needed more than some quirky facial expressions to save it. The dialogue simply couldn’t be saved by a big Carrey grin, and for that reason, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is one of the worst films to come out of the 90s. And the movie’s 47 percent RT score isn’t doing it any favors.

3. ​Major Payne (1995)

Probably one of the most infamously bad movies of the decade, Major Payne (which has a 29 percent Rotten Tomatoes score) released in 1995 and we’ve never looked back… literally. I don’t know much about comedy, but I do know that delivery is everything, and Damon Wayans did not deliver.

4. ​Batman Forever (1995)

If there’s one thing the 2000s got right, it's the Batman franchise and universe. Unfortunately, the 90s missed the mark. Batman Forever leaned too heavily on over-the-top humor and campiness that it lacked any ounce of character development – something that is very needed in Batman movies, to say the least — which explains its 41 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

5. ​Wild Wild West (1999)

A diminished homage to the 1965 Wild Wild West show, the 1999 version failed to live up to the original’s tongue-in-cheek dialogue, developed characters, and the western of it all. Its campy tone didn’t win over new audiences and betrayed fans of the original series. All in all, Wild Wild West was a huge misfire, and only earned a 16 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

6. ​Hook (1991)

I remember being so excited to watch this when I was a young lass, only to have my young self be very disappointed. Hook played far too much on creating a sentimental and nostalgic film that it neglected a plot line. It relied too heavily on honing in on references to the original tale that resulted in a messy plot that was, at the end of the day, confusing. Hook was sadly anything but magical, as is its 29 percent RT score.

7. ​RoboCop 3 (1993)

RoboCop 3 completely deviated from what fans loved best in its original iteration. As most third installments do, RoboCop 3 was as much of a failure as it was a cash grab. It could’ve had something to do with swapping out and replacing the main actor for the protagonist, RoboCop, but what do I know? (The 9 percent Rotten Tomatoes score. That’s what I know.)

8. ​Mr. Wrong (1996)

Bill Pullman’s character isn’t the only thing wrong in Mr. Wrong, which has a 7 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. While rom coms usually, and obviously, consist of romance and comedy, this film’s plot points appeared manufactured and entirely unrealistic.It’s historically bad, so much so that Ellen DeGeneres (who stars in the movie) has joked about it being a “horrible flop that should have a sequel.” I get the joke, Ellen, I really do, but let’s hope there’s not a shred of seriousness in there.

9. ​Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997)

You’d think Speed 2: Cruise Control would set an example as to why sequels of great, standalone films should not be made, but alas we’re going to be plagued by them for years to come. This second installment lacked everything the first had to offer; the high-octane intensity, the action, the non-stop suspense, none of it was there in the sequel, leading to a film that lacked a real premise and any substance — and that got a 4 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

10. ​Barb Wire (1996)

I really didn’t want to put this one on the list because I love Pamela Anderson, but it’s only fair, and I cannot be biased. Barb Wire was, and remains, a hot mess with only a 28 percent RT score. There was no real trajectory of any aspects in this film, but particularly the aimless script. Thankfully, Anderson is having a redemption arc with her newest and upcoming film, The Last Showgirl and I’m loving it.

1. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl — On Netflix January 3, 2025

Wallace and Gromit are back! Thank goodness, because there's no other way I would want to start a brand new year. This January movie sees Wallace's new "smart" gnome become way too smart — and a dangerous certain someone might be behind everything. Now Gromit has to battle the most sinister of forces to save the day.

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl premieres January 3 and stars Ben Whitehead, Peter Kay, Lauren Patel, Reece Shearsmith, Diane Morgan, Adjoa Andoh, Muzz Khan, and Lenny Henry.

2. Better Man — In Theaters January 10, 2025

This new movie is based on the true story of British popstar Robbie Williams. While examining his rise to fame and his time with boyband Take That, the movie also dives into the highs and lows of fame...all while presenting as a monkey. I'm going to be honest, this movie really confuses me. It's definitely a creative and unique concept, which I've been craving more of, but I'll have to see this movie before I can figure out how I feel!

Better Man premieres January 10 and stars Robbie Williams, Jonno Davies, Steve Pemberton, Damon Herriman, Raechelle Banno, Alison Steadman, Kate Mulvaney, Frazer Hadfield, Tom Budge, and Anthony Hayes.

3. The Last Showgirl — In Theaters January 10, 2025

Pamela Anderson stars as Shelly, a showgirl who has to figure out what the rest of her life looks like when her show suddenly closes after 30 years. With an incredible cast, a award-worthy performance from Pamela, and music by Miley Cyrus, this is one January movie I literally can't stop thinking about.

The Last Showgirl premieres January 10 and stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka, and Billie Lourd.

4. Wolf Man — In Theaters January 17, 2025

Scary movie fans rejoice! Wolf Man is exactly the kind of movie that'll send shivers down your spine, unrelated to the winter weather. When Blake (Christopher Abbott), Charlotte (Julia Garner), and their daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) come across a dangerous and mysterious animal, they barricade themselves inside a farmhouse to stay safe. Unfortunately, Blake begins a strange transformation of his own — and puts Charlotte and Ginger in a whole new kind of danger.

Wolf Man premieres January 17 and stars Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner and Sam Jaeger, Matilda Firth, Benedict Hardie, Ben Prendergast, Zac Chandler, Beatriz Romilly, and Milo Cawthorne.

5. Paddington in Peru — In Theaters January 17, 2025

If you're already dreaming about a summer vacation, you're not alone — even Paddington Bear is headed somewhere warm! In Paddington in Peru, our favorite cuddly teddy is on a quest to find Aunt Lucy...and brings the whole family along for the ride.

Paddington in Peru premieres January 17 and stars Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, Carla Tous, Ben Whishaw, Olivia Colman, and Madeleine Harris.

6. One of Them Days — In Theaters January 24, 2025

Keke Palmer and SZA are reviving the BFF comedy in 2025 and I am MORE THAN READY. When Dreux and Alyssa learn Alyssa's BF has spent their rent money, they have to go on a totally unexpected adventure to keep themselves from getting evicted.

One of Them Days premieres January 24 and stars Keke Palmer, SZA, Maude Apatow, and Janelle James.

7. Flight Risk — In Theaters January 24, 2025

In this new January movie, Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery stars as a U.S. Marshall who must bring a witness to court and deal with the fact the pilot's really a hitman. (I can't help but wonder what Lady Mary would do in this scenario).

Flight Risk premieres January 24 and stars Michelle Dockery, Mark Walberg, and Topher Grace.

8. Inheritance — In Theaters January 24, 2025

Maya's life turns upside down when she learns her father used to be a spy...and then finds herself in the middle of an international conspiracy. No big deal!! Now Maya must evade dangerous hunters and stay alive long enough to find the answers to her questions.

Inheritance premieres January 24 and stars Phoebe Dynevor and Rhys Ifans.

Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell are starting 2025 with a bang! This hilarious R-rated rom-com follows Reese's character as she plans her sister's destination wedding...then realizes the venue has double booked them with Will Ferrell, a father who's determined that his daughter's (Geraldine Viswanathan) wedding go perfectly. When I say chaos ensues, I'm talking alligator wrestling, a zebra knocking over the cake, and strippers.

You're Cordially Invited premieres January 30 and stars Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Geraldine Viswanathan, Meredith Hagner, Jimmy Tatro, Stony Blyden, Leanne Morgan, Rory Scovel, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Ramona Young, Jack McBrayer, and Celia Weston.

10. Valiant One — In Theaters January 31, 2025

When a captain and his unit get trapped behind enemy lines — and their equipment goes out — they have to band together and figure out how to get to safety. This January movie has some familiar faces like Chase Stokes and Lana Condor, and it'll keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Valiant One premieres January 31 and stars Chase Stokes, Lana Condor, Desmin Borges, Callan Mulvey, Jonathan Whitesell, and Daniel Jun.

11. Mickey 17 — In Theaters January 31, 2025

Mickey Barnes goes on countless life-ending missions after he signs up to be an Expendable. On his quest to colonize the ice world of Niflheim, he's cloned countless times — but, shockingly, nothing really goes wrong until two Mickeys wind up surviving at the same time.

Mickey 17 premieres January 31 and stars Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.

Prepare for Hidden Costs

Beyond your mortgage, you'll need to pay property taxes, which can run in the multiple thousands each year, home owner's insurance, and maintenance for things like your HVAC (heating and cooling system), water heater (which can last up to 15 years vs. 8-10 with regular maintenance), and roof. You'll also have to pay for utilities, like water and gas, that you didn't have to as a renter. Make sure to set aside 1 to 3 percent of your home’s purchase price annually for unexpected repairs like plumbing issues or roof leaks. You also have to pay for your trash pickup and recycling. Create a budget to avoid surprises and save for a rainy day – that hopefully doesn't lead to a leaky roof.;)

Understand Your Home Insurance Policy

It's important to know what your homeowner's insurance covers, especially if you live in an earthquake and wildfire-prone area like me. Consider additional coverage for floods or earthquakes or other location-specific concerns.

Create A Maintenance Schedule

Learn the basics of your home’s plumbing, electrical system, and HVAC, like where they are! Locate the main water shut-off valve and circuit breaker box, and create a maintenance schedule for tasks like changing HVAC filters (every three months recommended), cleaning gutters (every spring and fall), and servicing your appliances, plus when the warranties run out.

Have Recommended Contractors On Hand

There's nothing worse than having a plumbing problem and not actually having a plumber on call to fix it. NextDoor is a great resource for finding recommended electricians, plumbers, and other contractors to fix things that you can't. My neighbors knew exactly who to recommend and it was easy to connect with the right people (and avoid the wrong ones).

Get To Know Your Neighbors

Before buying, walk around the neighborhood to get the vibe. I wish I had chosen a neighborhood with more kids on the block. On the flip side, we are in a very quiet neighborhood! Post-sale, building relationships with your neighbors can help you create a sense of community – and it feels good to know you have extra eyes on your home when you're away. My neighbors have my phone number and we text each other when we're heading out of town and need packages taken inside. We also share goodies from our gardens, have an annual block party, and have friendly chats on the way to our mailboxes. Welcome to 'burb life!

Take Renovations Slowly

It's easy to get so excited about renovating and decorating your new home, but I highly recommend taking your time with renovations. I bought a major fixer upper and rushed getting it all done so that it was livable, but now I wish I had been more thoughtful about certain choices, and bargain-shopped a little more. Some things definitely could have waited. Live in your home for a while, get to know it better, before making major changes. Your budget will thank you!

Invest In Good Repair Tools

This is a good time to invest in a quality toolkit (hammer, screwdriver set, drill, and tape measure...) and hand drill because there will be many times in your role as a homeowner that you'll need all of the above and you'll be grateful you have them on hand.

Check Your Safety Features

Make sure to install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, and note on your calendar to change the batteries every 6-12 months. If you decide it's right for you, you'll want to install a home security system too.

Keep a File for Important Documents

There is so much paperwork your first year of homeownership. Store warranty information, receipts, and maintenance records in an easily accessible place. If you're renovating, there are also permits you'll need to keep on file. And of course, you'll want your title, deed and mortgage docs in a secure place that you'll remember!

Know Local Regulations

Speaking of permits, before I had the windows replaced in my home, I checked with the county office online to make sure I didn't need a permit to do so. Turns out, the county had different rules than the city (I had moved from the county limits to the city limits), which did require a permit. I will spare you the story of an inspector coming by just as we were installing the last window! This is all to say, make sure to check local ordinances or your HOA (Homeowner Association) rules that might impact any changes, like fencing, landscaping and upgrades, you decide to make to your property.

Improve Your Energy Efficiency Early

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, windows, even solar if it makes sense for your home, can help reduce your utility bills and overtime pay for themselves.

Plan for Landscaping

Yard maintenance requires you to invest in tools or services for mowing, planting, and upkeep. If you consider the cost of your time, it's often cheaper to hire someone to do regular yard maintenance. Also, as you upgrade your landscaping, consider choosing low-maintenance plants and trees. After adding just a small bit of lawn and irrigation to maintain it, my water bill was a bit of a shocker!

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

Either find a tax expert who can help you with your taxes, or research deductions or credits available to homeowners, such as mortgage interest or energy-efficiency upgrades. It's money you can use to cross things off your inevitable wish list!