Why does Hollywood keep making remakes and sequels instead of original movies?

I worked at a major studio in marketing for 4 years. Let me explain the business reality: **It's not about creativity - it's about risk.** **The economics:** - Average blockbuster costs $150-200M to make - Marketing costs add another $100-150M - Total risk: $300M+ per film With that much money on the line, studios are TERRIFIED of original content because: **Existing IP reduces risk:** 1. **Built-in awareness** - Everyone knows Batman. No one knows "new superhero" 2. **Proven demand** - If people bought toys/watched shows, they'll probably see the movie 3. **International markets** - Established brands translate easier 4. **Merchandise** - Sequels can sell pre-existing product lines 5. **Data** - Studios can predict box office based on past performance **Original movies ARE being made, just:** - By streaming (Netflix, A24, etc.) - As smaller budget films - By indie studios - As Oscar bait in fall **The COVID effect made it worse:** - Theaters need guaranteed draws - Studios hoarding safe bets - Mid-budget original films moved to streaming **What actually changed:** 2000s: Original films could open at #1 regularly 2024: Only established IP reliably opens big The audience shifted too. Theatrical is now an "event" - people go for spectacle, not small dramas. Everything else they watch at home. **The good news:** - Streaming has tons of original content - A24 makes great original theatrical films - International cinema is thriving - Video games are getting original stories The theatrical experience changed. Original movies aren't dead - they just live somewhere else now.