The entertainment industry seems to be ready to hit pause come midnight on January 1st.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
Much like someone who promises to hit the gym more frequently, the entertainment world could definitely improve in various areas.
Here’s what I think should be on the resolutions list for movies, Broadway, and TV:
TV: Create shows without long breaks
When “Stranger Things” returned for its final season in November, it felt like a real challenge to remember who the characters were; they had all grown up and turned into graduate students.
It’s been three years since Netflix debuted a new season, and frankly, it’s becoming quite tiresome. For instance, FX’s acclaimed series “Shogun” is gearing up to start filming Season 2 in January, meaning fans will have to wait until 2027 for new episodes—another long gap. HBO’s “House of the Dragon” is only taking two years off, but still, it feels excessive.
Unlike “Game of Thrones,” these newer shows don’t quite reach that level of captivating quality. Maybe that’s why reality TV is thriving—it offers a steady stream of updates without long delays. The Real Housewives certainly don’t take 36-month breaks.
Shows like “The Pit” have been successful by understanding this desire. Similarly, “Hax” delivers content consistently. Audiences crave something better, yet they also long for the steady rhythm of traditional network television.
On Broadway: Tackling new musical issues
The theater world has been somewhat in denial over the past four years, acting like Broadway didn’t face major disruptions—at least it had some new productions to showcase.
Last season brought forth 16 new musicals. A lot of them weren’t exactly standouts, which is sort of par for the course, I suppose.
However, with a mere six hits, panic has finally set in. And, let’s be honest, not many of them can compete with the likes of “Six.” One new show, The Queen of Versailles, featuring Kristin Chenoweth, wrapped up on December 21st with a staggering $22.5 million loss.
Some recently announced assets, like the Celine Dion-inspired “Titanic,” have been in the Off-Broadway circuit for three years and have toured globally. Meanwhile, the upcoming “beach” project has been in the pipeline across the U.S. for over a decade. It’s clear that things aren’t exactly taking off.
According to a source, “The Lost Boys” may be the only bright spot this season. But, let’s face it—vampire musicals have never been blockbuster material in Midtown. Just look at Elton John.
Investors are understandably hesitant to put their money into new Broadway productions, as it’s becoming increasingly evident that many will ultimately lead to losses. What was once a risky business is now feeling downright foolish.
What’s causing this turmoil? Too many concessions to unions have resulted in skyrocketing costs. Consequently, there are fewer opportunities for performers and designers in musicals, pushing simplistic theater out of Hollywood. Strange, right?
A Tony Award winner mentioned working out of town is now the smart move. But that’s definitely not a good sign for New York’s theater scene.
Broadway is at a critical juncture, and its leaders really need to acknowledge the reality.
In theaters: Reviving true comedy
The comedy landscape in the movie theater is in disarray.
What used to be lighthearted has morphed into something weird and unsettling.
This year, we saw films like “Bugonia,” where Emma Stone’s character experiences rather graphic moments at the hands of oddball captors, and “Jay Kelly,” which depicts a popular actor quietly falling apart—both labeled as comedies.
If you ask me, what’s even remotely funny about “Bugonia”? The chemical castration scene? Really?
Meanwhile, films that once made audiences roar with laughter, like “Rush Hour,” “Anchorman,” and “Austin Powers,” are nearly nonexistent these days. Perhaps Hollywood’s seriousness can’t handle frivolity anymore, but this constant gloom is likely turning away ticket buyers.
One film slated for 2025 reminded everyone how refreshing it is to actually laugh in a cinema again. It’s a “Naked Gun” revival—more cheeky sight gags with the likes of Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson would be much appreciated.
See you next year.
