Will the Future of Cinema Be Predominantly Cinematic Universes?

The trend towards cinematic universes has gained significant momentum in recent years, largely driven by the success of franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). However, whether the future of cinema will be dominated solely by cinematic universes is a more complex question.

Current Trends

Franchise Focus: Major studios are increasingly prioritizing franchise films, which tend to have built-in audiences and greater marketing potential. This trend has led to the development of interconnected stories across multiple films, creating a rich, multimedia experience that can engage audiences across different media platforms. For instance, Marvel Studios has leveraged its cinematic universe to create a vast array of interconnected films and series, which have attracted millions of viewers worldwide.

Streaming Services: The rise of streaming platforms has also influenced filmmaking, with many services investing heavily in original content, including series that expand existing universes. For example, Disney has invested in expanding the MCU with original series such as WandaVision and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, which delve deeper into the characters and worlds of the cinematic universe. Additionally, other platforms like HBO Max and Netflix have introduced series based on their respective movie franchises, further blurring the lines between film and television.

Potential Future Directions

Diversification: While cinematic universes are popular, there is still a strong demand for standalone films and original stories. Independent films, documentaries, and unique storytelling can coexist alongside franchise films, offering a more diverse and dynamic cinematic experience. This diversification can cater to the varied tastes of audiences and ensure that cinema remains a vibrant and innovative medium. For example, films like Parasite and Jojo Rabbit have proven that standalone films can be just as successful and impactful as part of a larger cinematic universe.

Creative Exploration: Filmmakers often seek to innovate and explore new narratives, which could lead to different trends emerging outside of the cinematic universe model. The rise of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, for instance, has opened up new avenues for storytelling that can’t be replicated in a traditional cinematic universe. New storytelling techniques, such as interactive films or immersive experiences, may become more prevalent, offering a richer and more engaging viewing experience.

Audience Fatigue: There is a possibility of audience fatigue with cinematic universes. If viewers become overwhelmed by interconnected plots and the necessity to watch multiple films to understand a single story, this could lead to a decline in interest. To combat this, filmmakers may need to find ways to reintroduce freshness and variety into these universes. For example, CBR Entertainment's Infinity Exodus is a comic book series that attempts to bring new perspectives to the MCU by exploring the backstories of lesser-known characters.

Cultural Shifts: As cultural tastes evolve, the types of stories that resonate with audiences may shift. New genres or storytelling methods that don’t rely on established universes may gain popularity. For instance, there has been a growing interest in more realistic and grounded narratives, such as those found in the Hunger Games series, which take place in detailed, believable worlds. As audiences seek more authenticity and depth, filmmakers may need to innovate and adapt to these changing preferences.

Conclusion

While cinematic universes are likely to remain a significant part of the film landscape for the foreseeable future, the future of cinema will likely be shaped by a combination of franchise films and a diverse array of other storytelling forms. The industry may continue to adapt to audience preferences, technological advancements, and cultural changes, resulting in a more varied and dynamic cinematic experience. As the industry evolves, it will be fascinating to see how these trends unfold and how filmmakers navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.