Flash Gordon is a 1980 science fiction action film directed by Mike Hodges and based on characters created by Alex Raymond. Despite featuring an all-star cast, iconic soundtrack, and special effects, the movie was a box office failure. It grossed only $27 million on a $20 million budget, making it one of the biggest box office flops of the 1980s. The movie was panned by critics for its campy plot and cheesy dialogue, though it has since gained a cult following. Despite its box office failure, Flash Gordon has become a cult classic, with fans celebrating its campy, light-hearted take on the superhero genre. It has also been referenced in various TV shows, movies, and other media, cementing its status as a cult classic.