Steven Spielberg sounded a warning at CinemaCon 2026 in Las Vegas about the film industry’s increasing reliance on existing franchises and licenses. He believes that this model could lead Hollywood into a creative dead-end.
The 79-year-old director presented a new trailer for “Disclosure Day” on Wednesday, April 22. The movie’s plot has been kept under wraps but reportedly involves visitors from another planet and a vast government conspiracy to cover up their arrival, according to Variety.
Spielberg urged Hollywood to invest in original films rather than remakes, sequels, and spin-offs. He stated, “If we only produce known franchises and intellectual properties of known brands, we will eventually run out.” He emphasized the importance of offering visual stories to the audience, emphasizing the need for more original storytelling.
Another recommendation from Spielberg was for films to have longer theatrical runs before being released on demand platforms, a strategy being employed for “Disclosure Day.” He praised Universal’s decision to extend the theatrical window for their films from 17 to 45 days.
His own film will hit theaters on June 10, featuring Emily Blunt as a meteorologist and Josh O’Connor as a man holding evidence of extraterrestrial contact. Spielberg believes the movie will provide answers and spark numerous questions. “To fully experience it, all you need to do is fasten your seatbelt,” he concluded.
