Controversy Surrounding Netflix's Wednesday Universe Sparks Criticism
Netflix faces criticism for its ambitious Wednesday universe concept, as it embarks on a new era of franchising
Netflix is reportedly entering a new "franchise era" and facing criticism over a proposed "Wednesday universe," marking a shift towards reboots and spinoffs in the entertainment industry. This trend has surged in popularity over the past decade, but recent phenomena such as the Barbenheimer have highlighted a public desire for more original and innovative content.
Netflix seems to be following the traditional studio approach of strategically planning sequels, prequels, and spinoffs for its popular shows, despite the usual skepticism that arises with new spinoff announcements. One potential spinoff idea comes from the successful Wednesday series, which is a spinoff of the Addams Family franchise. However, the news has not been well-received.
Netflix slammed for its “Wednesday universe” idea
Netflix is reportedly developing a series centered around Wednesday’s Uncle Fester, with actor Fred Armisen set to portray the character. This project is part of a larger initiative to produce spinoffs within the streaming platform.
As per the latest Screentime newsletter by Lucas Shaw for Bloomberg, Netflix "is keen to develop a series of Addams Family shows to capitalize on the popularity of Wednesday," indicating its intention to expand a "Wednesday universe" of sorts.
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"Studios, streaming services, and TV networks are adjusting to slower growth and elevated interest rates by scaling back their spending and adopting a more cautious approach to content production," Shaw explains.
"In a landscape with endless consumer choices, established hits are considered more secure investments. Less marketing expenditure is necessary when audiences are already familiar with a title."
Netflix has not confirmed the green light for the Uncle Fester series, causing upset among fans who are criticizing the streaming platform. One fan expressed, "Not everything needs to become a universe, just have more Uncle Fester in the series." Another fan compared the situation to the "Marvelization of Hollywood," stating, "When Star Wars made the prequels, Hollywood saw it worked and made everything a prequel. When Marvel started 'universes,' now everything is a universe with origin stories!"
Netflix
Another user questioned, "Must everything be associated with a universe? Can't we just focus on creating great entertainment?" Meanwhile, a different comment humorously remarked, "'Netflix is reportedly aiming to achieve real profits for the fiscal year'."
Another person chimed in, saying "Just give us more episodes on Wednesdays, lol. Can't you just let something be and gain traction before jumping to spinoffs?"
But not everyone is against the idea, with one person saying "Uncle Fester stole the show! I'm glad they're considering this."
Get more updates on Wednesday Season 2 by clicking here, and explore additional Netflix content listed below:
- Firefly Lane Season 3?
- Beef Season 2
- Monster Season 2
- Ginny and Georgia Season 3?
- Stranger Things Season 5
- Florida Man Season 2
- Obsession Season 2
- The Sandman Season 2
- The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3
- Heartstopper Season 3
- Virgin River Season 6
- Lift
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about Netflix's plan to create a "Wednesday universe." On the one hand, I understand the appeal of expanding a popular franchise and exploring different characters and storylines. The Wednesday series was a huge success, and I would be excited to see more content set in that world. On the other hand, I worry that Netflix is trying to capitalize on the success of Wednesday without putting in the effort to create truly original and compelling content.
I think it's important for streaming platforms to strike a balance between creating new and exciting content and capitalizing on existing franchises. While spinoffs and reboots can be successful, they should not come at the expense of original storytelling. I hope that Netflix will take the time to develop the Wednesday universe in a thoughtful and creative way, rather than simply churning out spinoffs for the sake of it.
