Why Do Big Movie Studios Avoid the Blumhouse Method?
Blumhouse Productions has established itself as a powerhouse in the film industry, consistently delivering low-budget horror and thriller films that yield impressive returns on investment. However, large studio executives often shy away from adopting this approach, opting for their own methods instead. This article explores the key reasons behind this decision and highlights the differences between the Blumhouse method and the practices of bigger studios.
Genre Focus
Blumhouse specializes in horror and thriller genres, which tend to perform well with lower budgets due to their inherent audience appeal. These genres are known for their psychological thrills and suspense, which often require less visual spectacle than other genres such as action or comedy. Major studios, on the other hand, aim for a broader range of genres, including blockbusters that rely heavily on special effects, star power, and extensive marketing.
Risk Appetite
The fear of financial risk is a significant factor in why big studios opt for high-budget films instead of the Blumhouse model. High-budget films are seen as less risky because they can generate substantial box office revenue, even if the initial costs are high. By contrast, the Blumhouse approach embraces risk by producing numerous smaller films, where the financial stakes are much lower. This allows for experimentation and a higher chance of success per project.
Brand Identity
Larger studios often have established brands associated with big-budget films and franchises, such as Marvel or Star Wars. These brands have a loyal fanbase with specific expectations, and maintaining these expectations requires substantial investments. The success of these franchises often hinges on maintaining a consistent quality and audience experience, which may conflict with the diverse and experimental approach of Blumhouse.
Production Values
Big studios typically prioritize high production values, which often necessitate larger budgets. For example, special effects, elaborate sets, and famous actors can all drive up production costs. Blumhouse’s success, however, lies in creating effective scares and engaging stories with minimal resources. This model is not always feasible or desirable for other genres or larger studio expectations.
Market Strategy
Major studios often focus on global box office hits, which requires extensive marketing and distribution strategies. These strategies are tailored to high-budget films that can appeal to a wide audience. Blumhouse films, however, can thrive on lower marketing budgets due to their viral potential and niche audience appeal. The studio capitalizes on social media trends, word-of-mouth, and their own established brand to create buzz and generate interest.
Creative Control
Blumhouse is known for giving filmmakers significant creative freedom, allowing for innovative storytelling and unique projects. Larger studios, in contrast, may impose more constraints to align with broader business objectives. While this can lead to uniformity and brand consistency, it can also stifle creativity and prevent the kind of experimentation that has made Blumhouse so successful.
In Summary:
While the Blumhouse model is highly effective for certain types of films, the goals, audience expectations, and financial strategies of larger studios often lead them to pursue different approaches. Despite the successes of Blumhouse, the inherent risks and financial constraints associated with high-budget films continue to shape the decision-making process of major studios.