These Hollywood Box Office Results Remind Us How Hard It Is To Make A Franchise

Cowboys & Aliens (2011)

In theory, this film had all the ingredients for the next big franchise. It starred Daniel Craig who was at his peak as James Bond and it was directed by the same man who helmed Iron Man – largely credited for setting the foundations for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Also: it’s cowboys versus aliens – who doesn’t want to see that?

Strangely, the film failed to pick up steam and was considered underwhelming by audiences. It lost $74 million due to massive marketing costs and a sequel was shelved.