How Disney Can Regain Star Wars Fans with a Strategic Approach

Star Wars, a long-standing franchise that once united millions of fans, has recently found itself facing criticism and alienation from parts of its audience. Following the divisive reaction to The Last Jedi, Disney now faces the challenge of reestablishing the connection that fans had with The Original Trilogy. To achieve this, Disney must navigate the complex expectations of its audience and revitalize the brand through strategic storytelling and thematic cohesion.

Subversive and Satisfying

Star Wars fans, in many ways, seek a blend of subversion and satisfaction. They want stories that mirror the virtues of the original trilogy while also offering fresh perspectives. In The Force Awakens (TFA), audiences were initially pleased with a return to form, but after the initial euphoria, critical feedback surfaced. Many found the film to be an inconsequential ripoff with contrived writing and minimal character development.

The Last Jedi (TLJ) fell short for many due to its subversive storylines that seemingly negated traditional virtues that fans hold dear. The lack of character development and narrative resolution further contributed to the growing dissatisfaction among fans. These elements—such as the Jedi's diminished utility, the diminishments of the Force, and the devaluing of traditional familial and ethical virtues like discipline, determination, and respect—further alienated the fanbase.

Strategies to Regain Trust and Love for Star Wars

Disney has the opportunity to win back Star Wars fans by leveraging several key strategies:

1. A Darker Rey and Rebellion Loss Ending

A "dark Rey" and "rebels lose" ending could effectively re-establish the franchise's legacy. This twist would not only satisfy those seeking a subversive storyline but also address the concern about the original trilogy's virtues. While it might require a new trilogy, such an approach could pave the way for a more fulfilling and convincing narrative. The concept of the rebellion losing could be a powerful and meaningful ending that resonates with the themes of the original trilogy.

2. Innovative Plot Twists

An unconventional narrative that includes a twist, such as the one seen in The Departed where the main character dies and the perspective shifts, could captivate audiences and force them to re-evaluate the narrative. This could provide a new dimension of storytelling and bring fresh perspective to the franchise, drawing in fans who were previously alienated by the linear and predictable nature of the last two films.

3. Addressing Plot Holes and Contrivances

A coherent and subversive explanation for the plot holes and contrivances in the last two films could also help regained trust. While this might be a challenging task, it could demonstrate the franchise's commitment to internal consistency and detailed world-building. Such an approach would show that the narrative struggles were the product of deliberate and well-considered decisions rather than mere plot conveniences.

Re-establishing traditional virtues

Disney must ensure that the newfound narrative strategies align with the core virtues of the original trilogy, such as family, discipline, determination, respect for the past, and courage. Even in an ending where the protagonists face defeat, these virtues should remain vital and essential to the narrative. This balanced approach would not only satisfy fan expectations but also reinforce the emotional and moral arc of the franchise.

The Message of Kylo Ren

The message conveyed through Kylo Ren's "kill the past" mantra has been a significant point of contention. Many fans have interpreted this as a rejection of traditional values. Disney must address this by showing the thematic and narrative importance of these virtues. If Kylo Ren is truly a villain, he must be constructed in a way that his message is inherently flawed and ultimately defeated. This would help fans understand that the franchise's values remain intact and that the rebellion must stand by these virtues, regardless of the outcome.

Conclusion

To regain the loyalty and enthusiasm of its fanbase, Disney must navigate a delicate balance between subversion and satisfaction. By experimenting with unconventional endings and narrative twists, re-establishing the core virtues of the original trilogy, and addressing the concerns raised by the "kill the past" message, Disney can reignite the magic and emotional connection that made Star Wars such a beloved franchise. The path to success may not be straightforward, but with strategic storytelling and a commitment to honoring its legacy, Disney can win back the hearts of Star Wars enthusiasts.