Disney CEO Bob Iger acknowledges an excess of sequels amidst a challenging year at the box office
Disney CEO Bob Iger Acknowledges Overabundance of Sequels, Emphasizes the Importance of a Compelling Story
In a candid admission, Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed that the company has been guilty of releasing “too many” sequels lately. He emphasized that sequels should only be made if there is a genuine reason to do so, ensuring a captivating narrative.
Iger’s statement comes on the heels of the underwhelming performance of The Marvels, the latest installment in the Marvel franchise and a sequel to 2019’s Captain Marvel. Since its release on November 10, the film has only managed to earn $187 million worldwide. Iger attributed part of the film’s struggles to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in less supervision on set.
Reevaluating the Approach
Speaking at the New York Times’s DealBook Summit, Iger expressed his reluctance to apologize for making sequels, highlighting the success of some previous endeavors. However, he stressed the importance of having a compelling story that lives up to or surpasses the original. Failing to meet this criterion can pose a significant problem.
The Marvels is just one example of several box office disappointments Disney has faced in 2023, with half of them being sequels. This is a stark contrast to the company’s previous success, where seven out of the top 10 highest-grossing movies in 2019 were Disney productions.
Moving forward, Iger announced that Disney will only greenlight sequels if the creators have a story worth telling, ensuring quality and audience engagement.
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A Challenging Year for Disney
2023 has proven to be a difficult year for Disney, with many of its movies either underperforming or outright bombing at the box office. Disappointments include Antman and the Wasp: Quantumania, The Little Mermaid remake, The Marvels, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and Haunted Mansion. Most recently, Disney’s animated film Wish opened to a lackluster $31.7 million over the Thanksgiving weekend, falling short of initial projections.
Looking ahead, Disney plans to scale back on sequels and Marvel content in the coming year. Deadpool 3 will be the sole Marvel movie released by Disney in 2024, while Inside Out 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King, a prequel to the 2019 remake, are also slated for release.
How does Disney aim to balance the financial rewards of sequels with the need for fresh and engaging storytelling
In Marvelous. Despite having a massive fan base and high expectations, The Marvels failed to live up to its predecessor.
Iger acknowledged that the overabundance of sequels can dilute the impact of the original story and result in fatigue among audiences. He stated, “We need to prioritize quality over quantity. It’s crucial to focus on creating a compelling and unique story that resonates with audiences.”
Disney has been known for its extensive collection of successful franchises, ranging from classics like Toy Story and The Lion King to newer hits like Frozen and Moana. These films have captured the hearts of millions and become an integral part of popular culture. However, the continuous release of sequels, while financially rewarding in the short term, can jeopardize the long-term success of these franchises.
Iger emphasized that Disney’s commitment is to deliver memorable and impactful storytelling. He believes that audiences are not simply looking for more of the same; they want fresh and engaging narratives that stay with them long after they leave the theater. As the industry evolves, it is essential for Disney and other studios to adapt and innovate, prioritizing originality while giving due consideration to beloved characters and worlds.
In recent years, some sequels have garnered immense critical acclaim and box office success, such as Avengers: Endgame and Incredibles 2. These films not only capitalized on their predecessors’ success but also presented compelling storylines that expanded the existing narratives.
However, Iger’s acknowledgment of the excess of sequels reflects a commitment to rectifying past tendencies. By ensuring that each sequel is driven by a genuine need to continue the story rather than mere financial gain, Disney aims to maintain the integrity and magic of their franchises.
This introspection by Disney’s CEO comes at a time when other major studios are also grappling with the challenges of sequels. From the Fast & Furious franchise to the Star Wars saga, the pressure to deliver on audience expectations while maintaining a fresh and captivating storyline is a constant balancing act.
Ultimately, the success of sequels hinges on their ability to surpass the level of excellence established by their predecessors. Disney’s acknowledgment of the overabundance of sequels and their emphasis on compelling storytelling is a step in the right direction. By dedicating themselves to quality content and allowing creativity to flourish, Disney can continue to enchant audiences for generations to come.
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