Audiences Want Movies Made the Hard Way
The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment
Key Points:
- In 2026, audiences are favoring movies that emphasize analog filmmaking, practical effects, and authentic, tactile cinematic worlds, as seen in hits like The Odyssey, Project Hail Mary, Backrooms, and Obsession.
- Directors such as Christopher Nolan and Phil Lord have gained attention for their dedication to real locations and practical effects, rejecting heavy CGI use to create more immersive experiences.
- Franchise films relying heavily on CGI and artificial visuals, including some Star Wars and Marvel projects, have faced criticism and underperformed at the box office compared to practical-effect-driven movies.
- The trend reflects a broader audience desire for authenticity and "sweat equity" in filmmaking, with viewers valuing behind-the-scenes stories of filmmakers' physical and creative efforts.
- Nonfranchise films are gaining popularity, with five of the top 10 domestic box office hits in 2026 being original stories, signaling a potential shift away from franchise dominance, though it remains early to confirm a lasting trend.
