How Do Terrible Films and TV Shows Get Produced?

Understanding the behind-the-scenes drive that propels poor-quality content into production.

The road to producing a terrible film or TV show is often paved with a series of decisions and circumstances that stem from financial, creative, and sometimes unethical motivations. These decisions ultimately lead to a final product that fails to deliver the quality and entertainment value expected by audiences.

Why Do Terrible Films and TV Shows Get Produced?

When addressing the perennial question of why terrible films and TV shows get produced, one must delve into the core motivations and factors behind their creation. There is no singular answer, but a multifaceted explanation sheds light on the root cause.

Motivations Behind Production

While good films and TV shows are often the result of a carefully crafted narrative, compelling writing, and skilled actors, poor-quality content also finds its way to the market. The initial catalyst for the production of terrible films and shows is often centered around:

Financial Bait: The concept that drives a terrible film or show might seem promising at first glance. However, when reality collides with the initial idea, the quality often takes a nosedive. A case in point is the concept of The Emoji Movie, which initially seemed like an engaging idea but ultimately lacked substance. Reluctant Partnerships: Creative elements such as writing and storytelling can suffer when there's a lack of investment or resort to quick-fix solutions. Studios or networks often find themselves in situations where they need to fill in content, leading to the addition of random, unsolicited elements like product placements.

Additionally, the complex interplay of financial and creative factors often plays a significant role. In the film industry, it's common for terrible movies to be produced in the absence of fundamental storylines, with an emphasis instead on box office appeal and profitability. In the TV space, the reliance on reality TV shows for audience engagement and commercial success further propagates this troubling trend.

The Role of Momentum and Financial Pressures

A fascinating and often overlooked factor is the power of momentum in driving the production forward. Idealistic concepts sometimes falter when faced with the harsh reality of deadlines, budget constraints, or the exit of key talent. Despite the absence of common sense reasoning, production continues as the project's creators and stakeholders fear financial and social repercussions.

Momentum can be a double-edged sword. For instance, the 1989 Back to the Future film was shot with Eric Stoltz as Marty McFly in the beginning. However, the film's direction changed dramatically when Michael J. Fox replaced Stoltz. Had this change been delayed, the movie might have suffered a significant loss in quality and impact. Other examples include scenarios where the script may not be ready, budget cuts may necessitate changes that compromise quality, or vital cast or crew members may leave the project midway.

The Case for Reality TV

Reality TV shows, specifically, have become a formidable force in the entertainment industry, particularly in the wake of drastic changes in the American TV landscape. In the mid-2000s, prime-time slots were dominated by traditional dramas and sitcoms, which have since moved to pay TV or streaming services. These offerings provide viewers with a more personalized viewing experience, tailored to their schedules, and ad-free content.

The shift has forced TV networks to adapt, leading them to focus on reality TV shows that offer a live or near-live audience experience. These programs often revolve around themes such as cooking contests, singing competitions, home renovations, or matchmaking. Despite their popularity, reality TV shows are generally overshadowed by their lack of artistic merit and short shelf life.

Conclusion: The production of terrible films and TV shows is a multifaceted problem driven by financial motivations, creative compromises, and the pressure of maintaining audience engagement. Understanding these factors is crucial for both creators and consumers to make informed decisions and strive for higher quality content in the future.