In a recent interview with Variety, Jill Wilfert, executive at Lego, delved into the journey and decisions surrounding the original Lego Movie franchise, shedding light on its unprecedented success, subsequent challenges, and future prospects.
The Lego Movie franchise embarked on its cinematic journey with the release of its eponymous film in 2014, helmed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. This inaugural installment not only garnered immense commercial success, grossing over $468 million worldwide, but also received acclaim from critics, boasting a remarkable 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
However, after the release of three subsequent movies, including “The Lego Batman Movie” and “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part,” Lego opted to sell the rights to Universal, marking a pivotal transition for the franchise.
Reflecting on this decision, Wilfert acknowledged that the studio may have moved too swiftly with multiple film releases in close succession, leading to diminishing box office returns. Despite this, she emphasized the positive reception received by the movies throughout their run, underscoring the importance of delivering unexpected and innovative content in the film industry.
Wilfert highlighted the studio’s strategic shift towards serialized content and reality-style television, such as “Lego Masters,” as part of their ongoing efforts to nurture and expand their franchises beyond the big screen.
Despite the franchise’s success, the decision to transfer rights to Universal resulted in the shelving of several planned projects, including “The Billion Brick Race,” directed by Jorge R. Gutierrez, and “Lego Superfriends,” a sequel to the Batman spinoff. While the future of these projects remains uncertain, the appointment of Aaron and Adam Nee to helm the next Lego Movie promises a fresh and entertaining direction for the beloved franchise.
Wilfert’s insights offer a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the Lego Movie franchise, showcasing a blend of past achievements, present challenges, and future aspirations as it navigates new creative horizons under Universal’s stewardship.
FAQ
Why did Lego sell the rights to the franchise to Universal?
Lego opted to sell the rights to the franchise to Universal after a series of movies released in close succession resulted in diminishing box office returns. The decision was part of a strategic shift to reevaluate the franchise’s direction and explore new creative opportunities.
What led to the hiatus in the Lego Movie franchise?
The franchise experienced a hiatus as a result of the studio’s decision to step back and reassess its plans. This period of reflection followed the release of multiple films in quick succession, which led to concerns about audience fatigue and the need for fresh and innovative content.
Are there any future projects planned for the Lego Movie franchise?
While specific details about future projects remain undisclosed, the appointment of Aaron and Adam Nee to helm the next Lego Movie promises an exciting new direction for the franchise under Universal’s stewardship. Additionally, the franchise continues to explore serialized content and reality-style television, such as “Lego Masters,” as part of its ongoing expansion.
What happened to the shelved projects like “The Billion Brick Race” and “Lego Superfriends”?
“The Billion Brick Race,” directed by Jorge R. Gutierrez, and “Lego Superfriends,” a sequel to the Batman spinoff, were among the projects shelved after the transfer of rights to Universal. While their future remains uncertain, the studio’s focus has shifted towards new creative endeavors, potentially leaving these projects in limbo.
How successful were the movies in the Lego Movie franchise?
The Lego Movie franchise enjoyed considerable success, with the original film grossing over $468 million worldwide and receiving critical acclaim. Subsequent installments, such as “The Lego Batman Movie” and “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part,” also performed well commercially and garnered positive reviews, contributing to the franchise’s overall popularity and legacy.
Will there be a continuation of the Lego Movie franchise under Universal’s ownership?
While the specifics of Universal’s plans for the Lego Movie franchise have not been disclosed, the appointment of new directors suggests a commitment to continuing the franchise’s legacy. Fans can anticipate fresh and entertaining content as the franchise enters a new chapter under Universal’s stewardship.