The special effects are not the problem per se.   By your account we could argue that silent films are superior to the 'talkies' because some of the dialogue is ridiculous :)

As for me, I can't imagine 'Saving Private Ryan' without those special effects.  As in all aspects of cinematography and any other art by extension, the means by which the creator(s) employs techniques is what makes a success.    In Spielberg's hands those special effects are used when needed to create realistic effects. So, they might get dated in time but I can still watch Jurassic Park or Forrest Gump.   In Michael Bay's hands they're all over the place - usually taking precedence over plot, dialogue, etc.

And then, of course, there are the shining examples of superb acting and plot as in '12 Angry Men' where even the setting is limited to only a bare room with a table and chairs for most of the duration.  No special effects needed although your average teenager would probably be bored to tears if they had to watch it :)

I guess it all depends on what you want to see at a particular time and I am glad there are options for creative minds.