Wednesday, April 17, 2013

When in Doubt, Try Animation

... and sequels. Lots and lots of sequels.

Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn told theater owners Wednesday that the company is focused on developing a slate packed with "Star Wars," "Pirates of the Caribbean" and animated adventures.

Horn said that going forward, Disney will premiere between 14 to 15 films a year. Eight of these films will be big-budget event films like the forthcoming sequels to "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Finding Nemo." ...

Interestingly, the founder of Diz Co. had a distaste for repetition.

I don't like to make sequels to my pictures; I like a new concept ...

-- W. Disney

Of course, Walt did produce sequels in his time, but you get the idea.

Walt's thinking is so 1960s, you want to scream. Sequels, prequels and spin-offs are what the smart Hollywood exec does in the 21st century. It's all about "building the brand." And if you're smart, you have a shitload of brands.

Besides, what teenager doesn't want three or four more sequels to Star Wars?
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