N.D. Wilson, best-selling author of the 100 Cupboards trilogy and creator of Hello Ninja, dives into Hollywood's shifts post-Trump. He critiques the prevalence of mediocrity in film and the challenges of maintaining artistic quality in a profit-driven market. Wilson emphasizes the need for creative ambition and the potential of a free market to revive great art. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of children's entertainment and the resilience needed in today’s cultural climate, while also hinting at his exciting upcoming projects.
The historical separation of studios and theaters has contributed to the decline in artistic control and innovation in film.
The entertainment industry often prioritizes mediocrity and financial security over the pursuit of excellence and compelling storytelling.
Emerging streaming models may allow for a resurgence of diverse and innovative films if studios embrace creative narratives and risk-taking.
Deep dives
Theater Industry Challenges and Historical Context
The decline of the theater industry is linked to historical regulations, specifically the prohibition by FDR that prevented studios from owning their own theater chains. This separation weakened the ability of studios to directly control film distribution and audience access. Additionally, the current environment reflects a tendency for studios to prioritize safe bets rather than innovative films, often avoiding risks that could lead to a great artistic resurgence. This risk aversion contributes to a business culture focused more on financial security than on creating compelling cinema.
The Impact of Mediocrity in Film
The competitive landscape of the entertainment industry often favors mediocrity, with many creators hoping to achieve success without committing to crafting truly exceptional works. This crowded space dilutes the quality of productions and hinders innovation, as studios lean on formulas and trends that have proven commercially viable in the past. The success of films doesn't always correlate with their artistic merit; for instance, blockbuster hits can overshadow more nuanced works. Ultimately, true excellence in filmmaking becomes a rarity, as the industry is flooded with mediocre choices that prioritize mass appeal over substantial storytelling.
Challenges of Free Market and Art Production
The discussion centers on whether a truly free market can yield high-quality art, as often it tends to cater to popular demands that may not reflect artistic integrity. Compelling movies traditionally brought higher profits; however, modern financial models have shifted toward subscription services, which focus on consistent content supply rather than quality. This shift can lead to a market saturated with low-effort productions, as the incentive structures prioritize subscriber growth over film excellence. Consequently, executives are less likely to greenlight original and artful projects, fearing personal repercussions if those projects fail commercially.
Changing Dynamics of Theatrical Distribution
The historical split between studios and theaters is being reassessed as streaming services begin acquiring theater chains, which could lead to a more integrated model. This change raises questions about the types of films that will be given theatrical releases and how those films will be marketed. There is a potential resurgence of theaters providing varied content, challenging the monotonous offerings that have dominated recent years. If studios can recalibrate and encourage innovative storytelling, this model might enable more diverse film experiences for audiences.
Future of Storytelling and Cultural Impact
The importance of compelling storytelling is emphasized as a means to reshape culture and provide positive visions for society. Creative endeavors must focus not just on critiquing existing issues, but on portraying aspirational narratives that inspire action and change. Continued investment in creative and high-quality productions can stimulate cultural engagement and sense of community. As the conversation shifts toward building and promotional structures, there is hope that effective, uplifting art will thrive amidst a landscape previously marked by mediocrity.
Today, Santiago & Josh interview N.D. Wilson, best-selling author of the 100 Cupboards trilogy and of the nationally acclaimed Ashtown Burials series and creator and producer of the "Hello Ninja" book and Netflix show, to discuss the vibe shift in Hollywood post Trump, the future of Christian media, mediocrity and playing it safe vs. excellence, and much more.
(00:44) Can the film industry be made great again?
(01:21) Is capitalism good for producing great art?
(2:35) The film industry and Democracy suffer from the same issues
(7:00) Films are now Delta Lounge cheese cubes
(9:24) FDR kicked off the death of the film industry
(11:37) What negotiating with Netflix was like
(11:54) Profitability is capped. Hard work will cost you.
(23:56) Mediocrity is crowded. Compete at the top.
(27:06) The fork in the road of 2025
(41:04) “I wish Tom Wolfe was here to see this moment.”
(57:15) How to steward the victory
(1:03:58) The end of the parallel economy?
(1:09:29) His upcoming doc with @JoelSalatin
(1:12:16) Re-release of his Notes & Death By Living
(1:12:50) The fourth Ashtown book
Novelist turned filmmaker/producer and varsity basketball coach. He is the best-selling author of the 100 Cupboards trilogy (now in more than twenty languages) and of the nationally acclaimed Ashtown Burials series and the heart-racing western sci-fi Outlaws of Time series. He was the creator and producer of the book and Netflix show HELLO NINJA book & show and he’s one-half of the (almost) weekly STORIES ARE SOUL FOOD podcast.
Learn more about N.D. Wilson's work here:
https://ndwilson.comhttps://x.com/ndwilsonmutters
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