## Rumor Has It: A Star-Powered Flop
The 2005 romantic comedy *Rumor Has It* featured major stars Jennifer Aniston and Kevin Costner, yet it underperformed both critically and commercially. Despite its promising cast and nostalgic premise, the film failed to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
### The Story and Its Inspiration
The film’s concept plays on the legendary 1967 classic *The Graduate*. Aniston portrays Sarah Huttinger, a woman who discovers her family may have inspired the events of that famous story. Her search for truth leads her to Beau Burroughs, played by Costner, who could be connected to her past in unexpected ways.
### Reception and Box Office
Viewers found *Rumor Has It* predictable and lacking the sharp humor and emotional clarity that made *The Graduate* iconic. Critics called it a weak imitation that never found its own voice. Despite the star presence, the film grossed modestly and was quickly overshadowed by other romantic comedies of the time.
### Legacy
Although both Aniston and Costner enjoy enduring Hollywood careers, *Rumor Has It* remains one of their few collaborations and a reminder that even strong acting talent cannot guarantee box office success.
> “The movie never escapes the shadow of *The Graduate*, feeling like a tribute rather than a reinvention,” observed one critic upon its release.
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**Author’s summary:** A star-studded cast couldn’t rescue *Rumor Has It* from mediocrity—its imitation of *The Graduate* lacked originality and failed to win over audiences or critics.
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FandomWire — 2025-11-26