Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the contrasting market performance of two major Hollywood films, "Zootopia 2" and "Avatar: The Way of Water," highlighting a decline in audience enthusiasm for the "Avatar" franchise compared to its previous installments [5][6][12]. Group 1: Market Performance - "Zootopia 2" has achieved a global box office of $1.1 billion, with $500 million from the Chinese market, while "Avatar 3" has faced poor pre-sales and mixed reviews, leading to debates about its value [5][13]. - Predictions indicate that "Avatar 3" may only reach a box office of around $1 billion in China, a significant drop from its predecessors, which grossed over $1.7 billion each in the same market [13][22]. Group 2: Audience Expectations - The lengthy runtime of "Avatar 3" (198 minutes) has raised concerns about viewer commitment, with audiences needing to allocate significant time for the experience [8][10]. - High ticket prices, reaching up to 215 yuan, have also contributed to heightened expectations, making the viewing experience subject to stricter scrutiny [10][12]. Group 3: Technological Impact - The film's visual effects, while praised, have not translated into a compelling narrative, leading to a perception of "peak effects but mediocre story" among viewers [11][30]. - The novelty of advanced visual technology has diminished, making it harder for films relying solely on visual spectacle to succeed commercially [30][31]. Group 4: Industry Trends - The article reflects a broader shift in audience attitudes towards Hollywood films, with viewers becoming more selective and cautious about their choices, moving away from the notion that big-budget films guarantee quality [26][27]. - The high investment model for blockbuster films is under scrutiny, as the substantial production costs (over $400 million for "Avatar 3") require consistent global appeal, which is increasingly uncertain [27][29].