Hollywood is in the middle of a blockbuster revolution, where the biggest moneymakers are no longer standalone films but sprawling franchise universes. From the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to “Star Wars” and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), major film studios are increasingly focused on creating interconnected storylines and sequels, catering to audiences’ demand for ongoing epic narratives.
The trend was most notably sparked by the MCU, which started in 2008 with “Iron Man.” What began as an experiment has turned into one of the most profitable franchises in cinematic history, with dozens of films and TV shows all sharing a common universe. “Avengers: Endgame,” released in 2019, became the highest-grossing film of all time, raking in over $2.79 billion worldwide. Marvel’s success has inspired other studios to chase similar results, giving rise to a slew of interconnected franchises.
Disney, which owns both Marvel and the “Star Wars” franchises, has been at the forefront of this strategy. They’ve released sequels, prequels, and spin-offs, with each new installment eagerly anticipated by massive fan bases. The “Star Wars” universe has expanded beyond the big screen with popular series like “The Mandalorian” and “Ahsoka” on Disney+, continuing to build on a decades-long legacy.
But it’s not just Disney that’s riding the franchise wave. Warner Bros. has expanded its DC Extended Universe with films like “Aquaman,” “Wonder Woman,” and the recent “The Flash.” Though not as consistent as the MCU, DC’s iconic characters ensure strong box office returns. Meanwhile, franchises like “Fast & Furious,” “Jurassic World,” and even the revival of “Ghostbusters” tap into audiences’ love for familiar characters and worlds.
However, this franchise dominance hasn’t come without criticism. While these films consistently draw large audiences, some argue that Hollywood’s focus on established intellectual property (IP) is stifling creativity. Original films, especially those with smaller budgets, are finding it increasingly difficult to compete for theater space, marketing, and attention in an industry obsessed with sequels and spin-offs.
Despite this, there’s no denying that franchises have reshaped how films are made and consumed. With billions at stake and a loyal global audience, the franchise era in Hollywood is likely here to stay, for better or worse. Studios have found a formula that works, and it’s a powerful one—one that will continue to drive the future of entertainment for years to come.
