Part 8/10:
The Landscape of Franchise Continuation and Fan Sentiment
Critics and fans are naturally wary when Hollywood executives hint at franchise reuse or rebooting, especially when original stars are considered replaceable. Historically, statements like Kennedy’s have often preceded plans for new characters taking over iconic roles, resulting in franchise dilution or diminished storytelling quality.
James Mangold’s frankness about not wanting Waller-Bridge to carry on the franchise underscores one faction’s resistance to such changes. His comments suggest a desire to honor the original character and the legacy of Indiana Jones, contrasting with Kennedy’s more open-ended remarks about potential futures.