Ghostbusters Feels the Wrath of Critics
Ever heard of Ghostbusters? If you’re a movie buff, chances are you’ve watched this spooky, funny classic. For years, millions of fans have loved the Ghostbusters for their wacky tales. However, the franchise’s 2016 remake faced a harsh reality. It was roasted by critics and didn’t hit home with moviegoers.
Despite boasting a star-studded cast with Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon, Kristen Wiig, and Leslie Jones, it just didn’t strike gold. Internationally, it reeled in barely $100 million. Now, that may sound huge, but with a production cost of $144 million, it’s not so splendid. Sony, the distributor, was left with a bitter taste, playing a massive role in their $1-billion write-down.
Why did it flop? You could point to its stale storyline or the negative response to its all-female cast. According to the director, Paul Feig, the movie turned into a social statement rather than the fun entertainment fans were used to, causing it to tank at the box office.
Star Wars: Wins Hearts and Wallets
Now, let’s turn our attention to another franchise reboot: Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Unlike its Ghostbuster counterpart, this movie soared high and delighted viewers. It was directed by Rian Johnson and sits pretty as the second highest-grossing film in the Star Wars series. Sure, some die-hard fans had reservations, but overall, people loved it.
Why did Star Wars strike gold? Rian Johnson deserves applause for his brilliant vision and the way he handled the characters. He also balanced the roles of both men and women in the script. This balance is seen in the characters played by Daisy Ridley and Mark Hamill – each male character had a potential female counterpart, creating a deeper connection with the audience.
Lessons Learned: Gender and Genre
Rian Johnson, director of The Last Jedi, showed he could learn a thing or two from Ghostbuster’s misfortune. Instead of focusing too much on one gender, Johnson made sure his script was gender-conscious. This tactic was crucial to the film’s success. In essence, Star Wars: The Last Jedi won because it took notes from where Ghostbusters stumbled.
In the ever-changing world of entertainment, directors and writers need to think on their feet. Keeping in mind gender balance and creating a stunning plot can make or break a film, just look at Ghostbusters and Star Wars!
Watching for the Win
In the end, it all boils down to the viewer’s experience. No matter how well-thought scripts are, if it doesn’t captivate the audience, it’s a fail. The main goal should be to entertain and excite viewers, not just to deliver a social message. So, filmmakers, take note! Let’s hope for more mind-blowing and fun-filled blockbusters in the future. Remember, the secret to success is simple – entertain, don’t preach! Till then, you can enjoy The Last Jedi on Disney+ and rent Ghostbusters (2016) on Apple TV+.
The Verdict: Ghostbusters vs Star Wars
So, what’s the takeaway from comparing Ghostbusters (2016) and Star Wars: The Last Jedi? Listening to your audience and being conscious of scripts is paramount for success in the movie industry. Following these simple rules could mean the difference between a spectacular hit and a humbling flop. It’s clear that remembering these lessons can help future filmmakers steer clear of the same pitfalls and deliver fantastic blockbusters that stand the test of time.
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