Part 9/11:
A recurring theme in the industry’s struggles is the tension between niche artistic expression and mass-market appeal. Creatives often endeavor to produce art that speaks to small, niche audiences or pushes social boundaries. However, public and economic pressures suggest that studios and creators need broader appeal to sustain their careers.
The industry’s golden age was maintained by those who balanced creative ambition with mass appeal—creating content that resonated with diverse audiences, allowing for artistic innovation while generating profit. Today's climate has shifted, with more emphasis on niche messaging, cultural subversion, and ideological statements—often at the expense of broad commercial appeal.