If I Were in Charge of Disney: Alternative Strategies and Franchise Formulas

When considering how to shape Disney's future, there are numerous opportunities to explore beyond their current live-action remakes. This essay delves into alternative strategies and franchise formulas that could revitalize Disney's content portfolio and expand their creative scope.

Expanding into Mythological and Fantasy Worlds

Disney has a vast repository of mythological and fantasy stories at their disposal. Expanding into these genres could bring new vigor to their creative endeavors. For instance, the

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a prime candidate for a new animated series or theatrical adaptation. Since the story is now in the public domain, Disney can produce this content without the constraints of previous rights holders. Animating this classic story could set the tone for a series of films inspired by various mythological and literary works. Developing ambient themes and reimagining familiar characters while maintaining the essence of the original narratives could create a unique and captivating viewing experience.

Moreover, the Jungle Book series offers ample opportunities for featuring unexplored stories and seamlessly integrating them into an existing framework. Sequels to Disney's already released films could expand the narrative and introduce new characters and adventures. Sequels to Sword and the Stone and The Lion King could explore Arthurian legends and other fictional settings, much like the previous adaptations but with a fresh perspective and enriched storytelling. Additionally, bringing back Greek myth characters and pantheon figures could create a cohesive and compelling universe that supports both new and established narratives.

Developing New Franchise Formulas

While live-action remakes have been a significant part of Disney's strategy, it might be beneficial to shift focus towards the development of new franchises with established formulas. This approach could help bridge the gap between creative exploration and profitability, ensuring that Disney's portfolio remains diverse and resilient.

Disney could consider the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) model, which has proven to be a powerhouse in the film industry. By creating multiple interconnected franchises, Disney could leverage synergies across their subsidiaries to maximize profitability. For example,

Combining ESPN and the movie division, Disney could revive the 1990s sports-oriented movies such as Cool Runnings, Mighty Ducks, and Angels in the Outfield. Modernizing these films to tie in with ESPN and other sports properties would not only make them more appealing but also provide new opportunities for monetization through sports events and streaming channels.

Horror and Rated Action Franchises

In addition to exploring mythological and fantasy themes, reviving horror and R-rated action franchises could breathe new life into Disney's portfolio. These genres offer distinct opportunities for both revenue and creative freedom.

For horror, Disney could consider reviving older Fox franchises like The Fly or Alien, while also developing original properties similar to American Horror Story. This would allow Disney to compete with Warner Brothers' The Conjuring franchise and Universal's Blumhouse Productions. By taking a more horror-centric approach to these older properties, Disney can tap into a strong and loyal fanbase.

In the realm of R-rated action movies, Disney could explore adult-oriented action films such as Deadpool and Kingsman. With a history of producing such content through subsidiaries like Touchstone Pictures and Hollywood Pictures, Disney already has the necessary experience to craft engaging narratives. Leveraging the acquired assets of 21st Century Fox, Disney can push the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of R-rated storytelling.

Adult-Oriented Musicals and Book Adaptations

To cater to a broader audience, including the adult demographic, Disney could also focus on developing adult-oriented musicals. These films could build on Disney's family-friendly musical legacy, appealing to both younger and older audiences. Examples like La La Land, Bohemian Rhapsody, and A Star is Born demonstrate the potential for these genres to be both critically acclaimed and commercially successful.

Fox 2000, a division previously owned by 20th Century Fox, could be brought back to specialize in mature and adult-oriented book adaptations. This would provide Disney with another avenue to explore a wide range of stories and genres, ensuring that their content portfolio remains diverse and dynamic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if I were in charge of Disney, I would focus on developing new franchise formulas, expanding into mythological and fantasy worlds, deriving synergies from ESPN and other subsidiaries, and reviving genres like horror and R-rated action films. By exploring these avenues, Disney could not only revitalize its creative output but also ensure long-term profitability and audience engagement.