Disney is killing creativity in Hollywood

Disney has long been renowned as the best and most famous animated movie company in the world. Their first movie, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” was an instant classic, and it made Disney a top production company. They made many other legendary films over the years, from “Pinocchio” to “The Little Mermaid” to “Toy Story.” 

When all these movies were released, they were revolutionary and original, which made them so very special. However, Disney has recently forgotten about their beautiful past and has nearly stopped making inspirational and unique films.

Disney started down this dark path in 2011, as they began making sequels to beloved films like “Cars,” “Winnie the Pooh,” and “Pirates of the Carribean.” They wanted to see if fans were willing to sacrifice original ideas for nostalgic experiences and, as the movies were an overwhelming hit, the answer seemed to be yes.

Unfortunately, Disney ran with that original success; 16 of their last 21 movies have been remakes, sequels or prequels. In fact, their last eight movies have been remakes that led the box office on their opening weekends. 

In light of this reality, I fear for the future of the movie landscape. I fear that originality will be lost in Hollywood and that anyone who isn’t owned by Disney or another large publishing company won’t be able to make it. 

Almost every great modern director started with indie (independent) films. For example, Quentin Tarintino, who is best known for “Pulp Fiction,” was able to attract actors and producers for his first movie, “Reservoir Dogs,” with just his script. 

In the future that Disney is creating, where only directors who conform to preexisting notions of “what works” can make it, “Reservoir Dogs” likely wouldn’t attract the acclaim it did, and the masterpiece that is “Pulp Fiction” wouldn’t exist. 

Disney consistently holds back countless talented directors, preventing them from ever reaching their full potential by pushing prequels and part twos. When they pick up notable talents and signs them to massive contracts, it only continues to restrict production of unique content. Such an example is Taika Waititi, who directed the smash indie film “Jojo Rabbit.” He was recently bought out by Disney to make a new Star Wars series titled “The Mandalorian,” marking the departure of yet another talented director from original productions.

Disney is supposed to be the place “where dreams come true,” but I feel like I’m having the same dream over and over again. If the current trend of Disney’s productions continues, creativity will be forced out of Hollywood, and the movie industry will pay the price.