Introduction
Trying to emulate Marvel’s success, a studio endeavored to launch its own cinematic universe, only to face complete failure. Such ambitious ideas often fail to predict audience appeal, leading Hollywood to heavily rely on established franchises.
The Ill-Fated Attempt: The Mummy (2017)
Starring Tom Cruise, The Mummy was Universal’s ambitious first attempt to create a shared cinematic universe centered around iconic horror creatures. Despite grossing $410 million worldwide, hefty costs, including marketing, resulted in a $95 million loss for Universal.
Casting and Expectations
Universal’s venture seemed promising on paper, banking on the nostalgic appeal of Brendan Fraser’s previous Mummy series and Tom Cruise’s star power. However, not even these factors could salvage the critical reception and financial setback of the film.
Critical and Financial Fallout
Critics mercilessly panned The Mummy, with even its director criticizing the final product post-release. Despite its box office success, the setback was so severe that Universal’s nascent cinematic universe was declared stillborn.
Synopsis: The Mummy (2017)
Directed by Alex Kurtzman, The Mummy is a reboot of the renowned horror-adventure franchise. Tom Cruise portrays Nick Morton, a military man involved in the discovery of an ancient Egyptian sarcophagus.
Unleashing Chaos
Alongside archaeologist Jenny Halsey, Nick uncovers the sarcophagus of ancient princess Ahmanet, who made a dark pact for power and immortality. Transported to London, Ahmanet awakens and wreaks havoc, seeking to reclaim her lost dominion.
Rise and Fall of the Dark Universe
Universal’s Dark Universe aimed to encompass famous horror icons like Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Invisible Man. However, The Mummy’s failure led to the cancellation of subsequent projects within the Dark Universe.
Marvel and Other Universes Comparison
Current Landscape
While Marvel Studios dominates with its successful Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), other studios have attempted to replicate its formula with varying success.
DC Films
Warner Bros.’ DC Films has its expanded universe, with titles like Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, and Justice League. Recent diversification includes standalone hits like Joker and The Batman.
Sony Pictures’ Marvel Character Universe
Sony’s Spider-Man universe expanded with films like Venom and Morbius, seeking a niche within Marvel’s broader universe.
Legendary Entertainment’s MonsterVerse
Legendary’s MonsterVerse, including Godzilla and Kong films, focuses on epic battles between iconic monsters, attracting audiences with standout confrontations.
Paramount Pictures’ Transformers Universe
Paramount continues to expand its Transformers universe, featuring several successful films, though none have matched Marvel’s dominance yet.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What caused the downfall of Universal’s Dark Universe? Despite high expectations and initial box office success, The Mummy’s critical reception and financial losses led Universal to abandon plans for the Dark Universe.
Q2: How does Universal’s Dark Universe compare to Marvel’s success? Universal’s attempt to replicate Marvel’s shared universe model faltered due to critical backlash and financial setbacks, contrasting with Marvel’s sustained success.
Q3: Which other studios have tried to rival Marvel’s success? Warner Bros. with DC Films, Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man universe, Legendary Entertainment’s MonsterVerse, and Paramount Pictures’ Transformers universe have all tried to establish successful cinematic universes, with mixed results.
