The concept of movie stars has evolved significantly over the years, and it's fascinating to explore this transformation. The author begins by reminiscing about the golden age of movie stars, where actors like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Carrey, Will Smith, and Tom Cruise were the primary draw for audiences. These stars were larger than life, and their presence in a film was enough to guarantee a sold-out opening weekend. The author reflects on the mystique and allure that surrounded these iconic figures, who were often seen in trailers, interviews, and late-night shows, but not in everyday life. This separation from the public created a sense of wonder and excitement around their movies.
However, the author notes a shift in the industry, where the focus has moved from the actor to the intellectual property. Today, it's not just the actor's name on the poster that attracts audiences; it's the brand, the franchise, and the IP that matter the most. The author uses the example of the new 'The Running Man' to illustrate this point. Despite having a charismatic lead actor, Glen Powell, and a recognizable title tied to a cult classic, directed by Edgar Wright, the movie didn't perform as expected. In contrast, the author recalls the massive success of 'Mission: Impossible' starring Tom Cruise, which became a franchise because audiences trusted him, not the brand.
The author then delves into the idea that fame has become more widespread but perhaps less culturally dominant. While celebrities have more platforms and reach than ever before, their influence on popular culture is not as strong as it once was. The author observes that people are more famous, yet they struggle to open a movie, a stark contrast to the era when movie stars shaped culture and were household names. The author laments the loss of shared cultural experiences, where everyone watched the same movies and quoted the same lines.
One of the key reasons for this shift, according to the author, is the rise of intellectual property. Studios have shifted their focus from building movies around stars to creating franchises around logos. Marvel, 'Star Wars', and 'Fast & Furious' are prime examples of this strategy. The author argues that the actor has become interchangeable, and the brand now takes precedence. Tom Cruise, however, stands out as an exception, having successfully transitioned from being a star to becoming the franchise itself.
The author concludes by reflecting on the nostalgia for the old days when movie stars were cultural anchors. While the industry has evolved, and the old stars and franchises are revisited, it's not because the past was perfect but because it offered a sense of shared experience. The author acknowledges that the current state of the industry is not necessarily worse, but it has changed, and the old mystique of movie stars is indeed missed.
