One of the reasons why there are so many sequels and less unoriginal movies from big studios.
Big franchise names almost always perform according to expectations, even if the movie is bad.
Big franchise names almost always perform according to expectations, even if the movie is bad.
https://filmrust.com/2019/02/12/where-lego-2-went-wrong-an-5...
Incredibles 2, Shrek 2, Spongebob 2, and Despicable Me 2 were really the only ones worth making, vs gambling on a new property.
If "Kung Fu Panda 1" makes $273 million and "Kung Fu Panda 2" makes $187 million that's lower - but higher than "Pokemon: The First Movie" which only made $153 million.
A primary concern is how you differentiate your product in the age of Netflix. If you want to make an original and complex character driven work, you’re better suited with a Netflix series. Movie studios therefore gravitate to producing works uniquely suited to highlight the things that can’t be done on the small screen and simply must be experienced at a theater. Thus, they continue to churn out special-effects laden blockbusters based on familiar IP because it makes sense for their business.