I would not describe myself as a huge cinephile. I love movies and their immersion as much as any other average person, and love an occasional cinema trip. for this reason, I don’t feel qualified to provide my opinion on many highbrow cinematic debates, but I am feeling immense disappointment in the current state of cinema, which I think is reflective a general feeling by the general population. In 2023, director Martin Scorcese described the ‘dark days’ of cinema (https://www.nme.com/news/film/martin-scorsese-says-were-in-dark-days-for-cinema-3375893), and the idea has stuck with me since I first read it. Since then, I’ve felt that cinema has continued to deteriorate in its production value and originality.
For some time now, it seems that newly released films, either on streaming platforms or with theatrical releases, lack originality in both casting and their concepts. Films are currently almost exclusively remakes or sequels to beloved and treasured classics, which either diminish the love for the original, or provide a resurgence. In looking at the releases at my preferred cinema, rarely is something listed where I don’t already know the story. Freakier Friday, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Jurassic World Rebirth, The Naked Gun, The Bad Guys 2, and the new Superman provide limited options for entrance to a new world and cinematic universe. Even the anticipation of Sunrise On The Reaping, which im personally very excited for and following the progress of on social media like a sticky-fingered iPad kid, is still another example of expanding of an established and profitable cinematic universe.
Of course, to say that there are no new films is untrue. Some current films with original premises gracing scenes very soon. Weapons, for example is a new horror film, where, despite being granted a basic overview of the situation, the premise is still a mystery, and even its genre. At the release of the trailer, some believe it to be an allegory for school shootings, or it contains a supernatural element, while others are convinced the film is a retelling of the pied piper. Similarly, discussions of a new 2025 horror film Good Boy, has a unique premise, told from the point of view of a dog, whose owner is being haunted. However, it seems that only the horror genre is currently brave enough to be experimental, or even original. Especially for those who don’t enjoy horror, they are resigned to keep waiting and wishing for fresh ideas.
So, the only question is, why is the general public being spoon-fed crumbs of rehashed franchises? The simple and albeit selfish reason is because filmmakers can. By making sequels and modern remakes, they have a ready-made fanbase built by people who enjoyed the original,  who can promote the film and anticipate the release. It’s guaranteed view ship to help boost box office earnings, whether the film is beloved or not. Compared to a brand new release, which must work harder to advertise to potential viewers, it’s easy to see why films are typically building upon a preexisting franchise, with a guaranteed fanbase who will spend money, out of curiosity or excitement, to revisit something previously beloved.
With freakier Friday, for example, I’ve seen so much about press release and Lindsey Lohan. Everything on my various social media feeds is about the limited edition popcorn buckets, how each of Lohan’s outfits is a reference to one of her previous project, or interviews with the heartthrob male actors.  Yet, I still have no real idea about how the film is being received, or any details of the plot beyond its position as a sequel.
Once again, I haven’t seen these films. their enjoyment as pieces of media or entertainment value is not the topic of this discussion. The new superman film, for example, seems to be well received online for its rich characterisation of the kind superman, and discussions of the necessity of empathy in the human experience. These films could all possess wonderful storylines and compelling renditions of characters, but it still remains that they are riding on the back of established storylines, which in turn provides certain limitations in terms of creative liberties. there is only so many new characteristics and powers you can give superman in a new film before he becomes a new superhero, or fans go on a tirade.
Ultimately, there is no motivation for filmmakers to change the trend. Unique and original films seemingly hold too much risk compared to the guaranteed monetary success of sequels or remakes. Until companies understand that creative risks are better than bland, reheated franchises that are sadly becoming the norm, the future of cinema is looking dire.
And don’t even get me started on the current state of tv shows.