Woke goes broke: Why Hollywood’s politically correct remakes are a flop
The Hill
by Douglas MacKinnon, opinion contributorFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hollywood’s recent trend of creating politically correct remakes has backfired, leading to box office flops and widespread criticism. By prioritizing woke narratives over entertainment value, these adaptations often alienate audiences who feel targeted or misrepresented. Critics argue that this approach risks dividing viewers rather than uniting them, as films now cater to niche ideologies at the expense of broader appeal.
The article highlights specific examples, such as *Dune* and superhero remakes, where overt political messaging overshadowed compelling storytelling. Producers often weaponize humor or dialogue to push agendas, alienating large portions of their potential audience. This strategy not only fails financially but also reinforces cultural divides, making it harder for films to achieve the commercial success of their original counterparts.
From a business perspective, this trend reflects a broader shift in Hollywood’s priorities, with studios prioritizing identity politics over creative integrity. While diversity is essential in entertainment, critics warn that forced inclusivity and self-censorship stifle innovation and resonate poorly with audiences. This raises questions about whether modern cinema can balance political correctness with artistic excellence.
Ultimately, the failure of these remakes underscores a growing disconnect between creators and their audience. By catering to ideological agendas rather than universal storytelling, Hollywood risks losing its cultural relevance and alienating both conservative and progressive viewers. As politics continues to influence entertainment, this issue matters deeply to readers interested in the intersection of art, culture, and ideology.
The broader implications of this trend extend beyond票房 success, touching on issues of free expression, cultural representation, and the role of art in society. As Hollywood grapples with these challenges, audiences will likely see more backlash against over-politicized entertainment, signaling a potential shift back toward inclusive storytelling that resonates across diverse demographics.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/21/2026