Ebert on Hollywood

[Rev. Powell]

I personally would count PRINCE OF PERSIA, JOHN CARTER and THE MUPPETS as franchise films, because they are based off existing properties with existing fan bases, not new ideas.

Extrapolating off that, you'd agree Hollywood has mostly been producing franchise films for the past 80 years, right?  As one example, the year the Godfather won Best Picture (1973 Academy awards), ALL of the nominees for Best Picture are based on novels.  That's certainly an existing property with existing fan bases.  I'm not aware of an actual statistical analysis, but I think a large majority of Hollywood films have always been franchise films based off that definition. 

You make a good point there. 

[Rev. Powell]

All the reasons you give Rev. Powell are plausible reasons for what Ebert said, but I just noted something after I posted my reponse to your post. What he is saying, in so many words, is that franchise films, 3-D event movies, and comic hero stories cannot have plausible characters. Now, of course, many of us know that is wrong. So, can we trust his opinion when it comes to these type of films?

You make a good point as well.  However, I think it's safe to say that these types films are less likely to have well-developed, original characters rather than just stock characters.  I think his point is that all those types of movies tend to play it safe and conservative and not take chances or explore uncomfortable realities.

[Flick James]

I think his point is that all those types of movies tend to play it safe and conservative and not take chances or explore uncomfortable realities.

That's what David Lynch does.

[Joe the Destroyer]

Eh, I'm kind of a two-face when it comes to Hollywood.  I do bash their lack of wit, but at the same time I watch Hollywood movies.  I'm equal opportunity to film.  Just because it's Hollywood doesn't mean I'll avoid it.  Although I have been staying clear of remakes lately....

That being said, I carry the opinion on watching movies that I also carry with books, video games, and music.  Don't watch because you feel you have to, or because some pretentious ass tells you it's an important film, or because everyone else is.  Watch what appeals to you.  A guy I knew who used to work in showbiz (worked with Patty Duke, no less) once said this to me.  I pondered it then, and agree with it now.