Two decades ago, on August 27, 2004, Napoleon Dynamite hit theaters and forever changed the landscape of indie cinema. Directed by Jared Hess and starring Jon Heder as the awkward yet endearing title character, the film was a breath of fresh air with its eccentric humor and unforgettable one-liners. Despite its modest budget and quirky premise, Napoleon Dynamite quickly ascended to cult classic status, resonating with audiences who saw a bit of themselves in its offbeat characters.
Set in the small, rural town of Preston, Idaho, the film follows the life of Napoleon, an awkward high schooler with a penchant for drawing mythical creatures, practicing his dance moves, and dreaming of a better life. The story is simple, focusing on Napoleon’s daily struggles and his attempts to help his friend Pedro win the school’s presidential election. Yet, it’s this simplicity, combined with its unique brand of deadpan humor, that made the film so iconic.
The film’s success was unexpected, grossing over $46 million worldwide on a budget of just $400,000. Its impact went beyond the box office, sparking a slew of merchandise, including T-shirts emblazoned with Napoleon’s famous line, “Vote for Pedro.” The film also introduced audiences to a new kind of protagonist—one who was unapologetically himself, awkwardness and all.
