Here's why Hollywood movies suck

An LA times story about the new John Carter movie shows quite clearly why these big-budget Hollywood movies are not worth watching:

The project reflects (Disney's) decision to limit its filmmaking investments to two categories: developing movies around its established Marvel, Pixar and Disney brands, and financing wide-appeal event movies with the potential to drive sequels, merchandise sales, television series or theme-park attractions.

That's about all you need to know. Story and character are the two required elements for good movies (and novels). Everything else is an afterthought -- unless you're the typical Hollywood financier.

I think some big-budget Hollywood movies are very good, like almost anything by Ridley Scott -- Gladiator, American Gangster, Kingdom of Heaven, etc. These are the exceptions, unfortunately.