Why Are the Most Expensive Netflix Movies Also the Worst? (theguardian.com)
(Tuesday March 18, 2025 @12:40PM (msmash)
from the all-the-money-in-the-world dept.)
- Reference: 0176763579
- News link: https://entertainment.slashdot.org/story/25/03/18/1634231/why-are-the-most-expensive-netflix-movies-also-the-worst
- Source link: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/mar/17/netflix-expensive-blockbuster-worst
Despite spending hundreds of millions on blockbuster films, Netflix continues to [1]churn out critically panned big-budget fare with its latest $300 million flop, "The Electric State," starring Chris Pratt and Millie Bobby Brown. While the streaming giant has produced acclaimed films by giving talented directors creative freedom -- resulting in successes like "The Irishman," "Marriage Story" and "The Power of the Dog" -- it has repeatedly failed to create genuinely compelling blockbusters despite attracting major talent and pouring massive resources into productions like "Red Notice," "The Gray Man" and now "The Electric State."
These expensive Netflix "mockbusters" lack the overwhelming sensations that theatrical blockbusters deliver, instead feeling like glorified content designed primarily for home viewing. The Russo brothers' "Electric State," with its drab visuals and lifeless performances, exemplifies how Netflix's biggest productions feel infused with the knowledge they're merely "content first."
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/mar/17/netflix-expensive-blockbuster-worst
These expensive Netflix "mockbusters" lack the overwhelming sensations that theatrical blockbusters deliver, instead feeling like glorified content designed primarily for home viewing. The Russo brothers' "Electric State," with its drab visuals and lifeless performances, exemplifies how Netflix's biggest productions feel infused with the knowledge they're merely "content first."
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/mar/17/netflix-expensive-blockbuster-worst
Because they don't stick with a good story? (Score:1)
by Oh really now ( 5490472 )
Or if they do, they try to check off as many hot topics as they can, which obscures and dilutes whatever story there was to tell. The film industry needs to back off the formulaic approach and get back to mentally engaging entertainment.
Because those with creative power today ... (Score:1)
by Qbertino ( 265505 )
... aren't creative, but they sure do have their eyes focused on a brainwashing agenda. Toxic wokeness is what I would call it.
Is it really a flop? (Score:2)
Critics hate it but the audience scores are good.
Re: (Score:1)
I had assumed since Chris P is in it the critics would hate on it.
Re: (Score:1)
I liked it. You could see some plot points comming a mile off, but it was enjoyable.
Re: (Score:2)
According to Metacritic, everyone hates it, critics and unwashed masses alike.
I agree with your sentiment: the purpose of a movie is to make money, not to please some ivory-tower gatekeepers of "goodness." If the popular audience likes it, then that's a win.
But in this case, it's a flop.