The Rise of DEI and Its Discontents

The shift began in the wake of the 2014 Oscars, where all acting nominees were white, sparking the #OscarsSoWhite movement. The ensuing pressure on the Academy and studios led to pledges of reform. However, as one writer recalled in the Compact piece, the landscape changed almost overnight in 2015. Opportunities vanished, and a sense of disillusionment set in, not as an isolated incident, but as a systemic shift. This wasn’t simply about correcting past imbalances; it evolved into a set of mandates that, according to some, actively discriminated against qualified candidates.

This period coincided with the rise of the #MeToo movement, further intensifying the focus on representation and inclusivity. While the goals of both movements were laudable, the implementation, critics argue, created an environment where merit wasn’t always the primary consideration. The stories shared by comedian Tyler Fischer and author James Patterson, among others, hint at a broader pattern of exclusion and censorship, a sentiment that has resonated with many within the industry.

The culmination of these factors arguably contributed to the end of “Peak TV,” a period of unprecedented content creation. Was this a coincidence? Many believe the industry’s ideological leanings played a significant role in its current predicament. Hollywood progressives championed specific policies – DEI initiatives, support for Democratic leaders, lenient criminal justice reforms, and open border policies – and now, some argue, they are reaping the consequences.

The situation extends beyond the studio lots. The handling of recent disasters, such as the Palisades fires, has drawn criticism. Reports indicate that Mayor Karen Bass was out of the country when the blaze began, and the promised rebuilding efforts have fallen far short of expectations. Podcaster Adam Carolla has been vocal about the bureaucratic hurdles faced by those affected by the fires, highlighting a perceived lack of effective leadership.

Governor Gavin Newsom has also faced scrutiny. Despite attempts to incentivize film production through tax breaks, many productions are leaving California for more business-friendly environments. Director John Stalberg, Jr., for example, chose to shoot his sequel, “Muzzle: City of Wolves,” outside of Los Angeles, citing the state’s challenging business climate, as detailed in a discussion with The Hollywood in Toto podcast.

Adding to the woes, Los Angeles has experienced a surge in homelessness and crime, coupled with a significant outflow of residents. Despite these challenges, Hollywood continues to largely shield Newsom from criticism, offering him a level of deference rarely extended to other politicians. This reluctance to hold leaders accountable raises questions about the industry’s priorities and its willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.

Interestingly, even as Hollywood appears poised to support Newsom’s potential 2028 presidential run – with major donors like former Obama ambassador James Costos already signaling their support – the industry has consistently attacked another political figure: Donald Trump. From cinematic critiques like “The Apprentice” and the upcoming “The Social Reckoning” to relentless late-night monologues and award show jabs, Trump has been a frequent target of Hollywood’s ire. This stark contrast in treatment highlights a deep-seated ideological divide.

Beyond Politics: Emerging Threats to Hollywood

The challenges facing Hollywood aren’t solely political or ideological. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) poses a significant threat to various aspects of filmmaking, particularly in areas like visual effects, voiceovers, and animation. This technological disruption could lead to job losses and further exacerbate the industry’s economic woes. Furthermore, the growing popularity of cheaper alternatives like YouTube, advanced video games, and social media platforms is diverting audiences and shrinking the pool of potential viewers.

These external factors, while not directly attributable to Hollywood’s internal dynamics, add another layer of complexity to the situation. The industry’s long-held beliefs and policies, combined with these broader trends, have created a perfect storm of challenges.

The industry’s insistence on aligning with specific political ideologies while simultaneously punishing dissent has created a self-inflicted wound. Now, facing economic hardship and dwindling influence, Hollywood may be forced to confront the consequences of its choices. Will the industry finally acknowledge the role its own decisions have played in its current predicament?

What will it take for Hollywood to regain its footing? And can it overcome its internal divisions to address the challenges ahead?

Frequently Asked Questions About Hollywood’s Decline