Wuthering Heights, Michael Jackson & Trump: Will 2026 End ‘Woke’ Blockbusters?
This article discusses a trend in Hollywood where studios seem to be making choices – in terms of projects greenlit and how they’re approached – influenced by a fear of backlash, notably from figures like Donald Trump and his supporters.here’s a breakdown of the key points:
* Controversial Figures Return: The article highlights how figures with past controversies (like Brett Ratner, accused of sexual assault, and Michael Jackson, accused of child molestation) are finding opportunities in hollywood, potentially due to a shift in priorities or a willingness to overlook past issues.
* “Woke” Backlash & Risk Aversion: Studios are increasingly hesitant to include anything perceived as “woke” in their films, fearing negative reactions. This is evidenced by:
* The negative reception to the recent Superman film, criticized for its perceived pro-immigrant message.
* The controversy surrounding the Snow White remake and Disney’s internal struggles over LGBTQ+ content.
* DC choosing to focus on lesser-known characters like Supergirl and clayface.
* Social Media Firestorms: Films are now navigating intense social media scrutiny, as seen with the casting choices in the new Wuthering Heights adaptation.The article suggests that a pre-Trump era might have seen this controversy derail the project.
* Potential for Future Issues: upcoming Disney and marvel/Star Wars projects are flagged as potentially problematic, suggesting the trend of risk aversion will continue.
* Daughter’s Criticism: Michael Jackson’s daughter,Paris Jackson,criticized the upcoming biopic of her father,calling it “sugar-coated” and pandering to a specific fanbase.
In essence, the article paints a picture of a Hollywood increasingly cautious and influenced by political and social pressures, potentially at the expense of artistic risk-taking or addressing complex issues. It suggests a climate where studios are prioritizing avoiding controversy over creative vision.