Entering theatres with a torrent of bad buzz, "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" has all the makings of a big-time flop - not necessarily a shock given the thin source material.

What is surprising, however, is the appearance of indie stalwart and critically acclaimed actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the role of Cobra Commander. It's not the kind of fare he's normally associated with, but he isn't the first good actor to show up in a bad, bad film.

Why does this happen? There are myriad reasons, but these are the most popular:

Material temptation: It's not easy turning down a $20 million ...