The actor-director looks back fondly on a box office disappointment that shaped his career

September 1, 2025: Ben Stiller has worked on countless films across his decades-long career, from directing cult classics like Zoolander to starring in box office hits such as Night at the Museum. But in a recent interview, the Hollywood star revealed that his “favorite experience ever making a movie” came from an unexpected place—an ‘80s Brat Pack flop.

A Surprising Pick

The project in question was Fresh Horses (1988), a drama starring Andrew McCarthy and Molly Ringwald. Despite the film’s high-profile cast, which included several members of the iconic Brat Pack, it underperformed at the box office and was widely considered a disappointment. But for Stiller, who had a supporting role, the experience was anything but a failure.

Stiller on Why It Mattered

Speaking about the film, Stiller shared that the project offered him his first real taste of Hollywood filmmaking. “It was just such a thrilling time,” he recalled. “I got to be around actors I admired and really see how a film set worked on that level. Even though the movie didn’t hit big, for me it was a dream come true.”

Fans React to His Nostalgia

After his comments resurfaced, fans took to social media to praise Stiller’s perspective. Many noted that it’s refreshing to see a Hollywood figure celebrate the joy of making art rather than focusing solely on box office numbers. Some even expressed newfound curiosity about the forgotten film.

A Reminder of the Journey

While Fresh Horses may not have made waves in theaters, it clearly left a lasting impact on Stiller. The actor emphasized that the memories and friendships formed on set still rank among the highlights of his career—proof that sometimes, the most meaningful experiences come from unexpected places.