Reclaiming the Spotlight: 20th Century Studios' Triumphant Summer
Embracing the Familiar and Forging New Paths
The summer of 2024 saw 20th Century Studios firmly establish its presence within the Disney empire. With blockbuster hits like Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and Alien: Romulus, the studio reminded audiences of its iconic legacy, while also exploring new creative avenues. The success of Deadpool & Wolverine, which grossed a staggering $1.3 billion, further cemented the studio's position as a powerhouse in the Marvel cinematic universe.Asbell, who took over as president of the division in 2020, has navigated the studio through the turbulent waters of the pandemic and the subsequent shift towards streaming. His steady leadership has allowed 20th Century Studios to adapt and thrive, balancing the demands of theatrical releases and the growing appetite for streaming content.
As the studio looks to the future, Asbell and his team are actively working with up-and-coming filmmakers to develop streaming features that could potentially transition to the big screen. This strategic approach allows 20th Century Studios to stay ahead of the curve, tapping into the creativity of emerging talent while maintaining a strong presence in the theatrical landscape.
Striking a Balance: Originals and Established Franchises
The studio's success this summer has given it the momentum to explore a diverse slate of projects, balancing the power of established franchises with the excitement of original storytelling. Asbell reveals that the plan for next year is to have a roughly even split between original films and franchise entries.The first priority has been to ensure the right cadence and execution of the studio's major franchises, including Avatar, Planet of the Apes, Alien, and Predator. By establishing a clear roadmap for these beloved properties, 20th Century Studios can then turn its attention to developing and testing new genres and ideas in the streaming and theatrical realms.
Asbell emphasizes the importance of this balance, noting that the streaming platform provides an opportunity to take creative risks, while the theatrical landscape offers a more defined path to success. The studio's approach is to leverage the strengths of both distribution channels, ensuring that audiences have access to a diverse range of cinematic experiences.
Navigating the Shifting Landscape: Theatrical and Streaming Strategies
The pandemic has undoubtedly transformed the entertainment industry, and 20th Century Studios has had to adapt accordingly. Asbell acknowledges the changing landscape, stating that the theatrical experience is making a strong comeback, while streaming platforms continue to offer a valuable avenue for content.The decision to shift Alien: Romulus from a planned streaming release to a theatrical run is a testament to the studio's agility. Asbell explains that the initial plan was to develop the film for streaming, but as the pandemic situation improved, the team recognized the potential for a successful theatrical release.
Looking ahead, the studio is actively exploring the next steps for the Alien franchise, with director Fede Alvarez already working on a sequel idea. Asbell is excited about the prospect of continuing the story, particularly with the compelling characters of Rain and Andy, played by Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson, who captivated audiences in Alien: Romulus.
Expanding the Predator Universe: Unleashing the Unexpected
Perhaps the most surprising revelation from Asbell's conversation is the news of not one, but two Predator movies in the works for next year. The first, titled Badlands, is described as a "bonkers" and "absolutely nuts" sci-fi take on the iconic franchise, directed by Dan Trachtenberg.But the real shocker is the existence of a second, secret Predator movie that Asbell is keeping tightly under wraps. While he remains tight-lipped about the details, he confirms that Trachtenberg has directed both projects, hinting at a more interconnected and innovative approach to the Predator universe.
Asbell's enthusiasm for these new Predator ventures is palpable, and he suggests that the studio is not averse to exploring the possibility of an Alien vs. Predator crossover in the future. However, he emphasizes that any such collaboration would need to be organically woven into the narratives of the respective franchises, rather than a forced attempt to capitalize on the iconic matchup.
Embracing the Past, Shaping the Future
As 20th Century Studios continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, Asbell and his team are not only honoring the studio's rich legacy but also actively shaping its future. From the restoration of the iconic 20th Century logo to the careful curation of the division's historical Oscars, the studio is embracing its past while boldly forging ahead.The energy and excitement within the 20th Century Studios offices are palpable, with a life-size Planet of the Apes simian and the construction of a handsome wood-and-glass case to house the division's prestigious awards. This sense of pride and momentum is a testament to the hard work and vision of Asbell and his team, who are determined to cement the studio's place as a powerhouse within the Disney empire.
As the industry continues to evolve, 20th Century Studios is poised to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. With a diverse slate of projects, a commitment to both established franchises and original storytelling, and a steadfast leadership team, the studio is well-positioned to captivate audiences and solidify its status as a true cinematic force to be reckoned with.