Part 2/6:
Premature Decisions and Industry Standards
Critics have pounced on the film's early release in the United States, which garnered only $4.6 million on its debut. This figure not only reflects disappointing ticket sales but also raises questions about the overall quality of the production. The decision by Warner Bros to accelerate the film's release was reportedly motivated by the desire to retain the cinematic rights to Tolkien's work.
The implications are significant. In rushing the project, they may have compromised the film’s integrity, resulting in what many now describe as a "mediocre" production. This rushed strategy is reminiscent of other studios that have prioritized brand rights over creativity, leading to subpar contributions to beloved franchises.