Category: Opinion

By Abigael Kirui

 

It’s Time to Eliminate the Barriers

With special schools, disability policies and even an increasing number of assistive programs, Kenya is still moving in the direction of inclusive education. However, one question is still frequently disregarded: why do we still divide students according to their disabilities?

Real inclusion isn’t about putting people into separate circles-it’s about weaving all students disabled and non-disabled into the same kind of classroom life. When that happens, everyone gets the chance to learn, join in, and grow together; without it, what we call inclusion is just a polite way of keeping some kids outside.

 

Special Schools Are Not the Whole Solution

Special schools absolutely matter, they can provide easy routines and resources for learners with very deep or unique needs. Yet when those schools become the first and only answer for every disabled student, we wind up locking doors and missing chances for ordinary friendships and everyday mixing.

The Ministry of Education has announced the recruitment of serving teachers for a two-year full-time Special Needs Education (SNE) Diploma course at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) beginning in 2025.The programme targets current Teachers Service Commission (TSC) employees who wish to specialise in teaching learners with disabilities. Because of that gap, many families are forced into special schools not because it is best for their child, but because the mainstream option is simply unavailable. Special education therefore has to sit inside the regular school system, ready to help, not to fence off.

 

Inclusion Means Learning Side by Side

When students with different abilities share the same classroom, the whole culture grows kinder and more flexible. Everyone learns how to explain, to wait, to adapt, and that preparation gives them the social muscle to move comfortably through a world built for many kinds of bodies and minds.

Ironically, this separation disappears in the professional world, where disabled and non-disabled individuals are expected to collaborate as equals. This gap highlights a contradiction: schools that fail to integrate learners fully are preparing them for a world that demands inclusion. Why not start that inclusion from the classroom?

 

 

 

Separate Is Not Equal

When Kenya signed the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the country promised that every child would learn on the same terms as neighbours. Yet when schools isolate disabled children, we break that promise.

Our Basic Education Act of 2013 and Article 54 of the Constitution also call for equal access and say discrimination has no place in learning. Still, good words mean little without ramps, Braille books, trained staff, and attitudes that treat every child with respect. The purpose of the Act is to ensure that all children in Kenya are provided with a free and compulsory primary education. Both children with and without disabilities should be treated ‘equally’ which involves both the same treatment as well as different treatment based on the need of some children for accommodations.

 

Unity in Diversity Starts in the Classroom

The sooner we put children of every ability in the same room, the sooner society learns to value difference. Inclusion chips away at stigma, makes diversity ordinary, and teaches teamwork from the ground up.

Picture the professionals Kenya could raise if every graduate carried real experience of studying besides, not out of pity for, classmates who learn differently.

 

From Sympathy to Solidarity. Inclusion is not charity. It is justice.

Getting there calls for solid teacher training at every level like; accessible classrooms, toilets and play areas. Learning materials like Braille books, screen readers and sign-language interpreters.

 

Policy implementation with real accountability

A Closer Look: Daystar University’s Steps Toward Inclusion

As a Daystar student, I’ve seen the university take some real steps toward including disabled people. By far the most impressive move was the 2021 launch of the Daystar Institute of Disability Studies (DIDS), which now offers a Diploma in Disability Studies and trains future advocates and educators to push for wider inclusion on campus and beyond.

(DIDS – Daystar University) (https://dids.daystar.ac.ke/about)

The university is also building a Resource Centre for Visually Disabled Students with help from the Kenya Society for the Blind and tech partner Bitech. The centre will stock new devices and e-learning tools, giving visually impaired learners a fighting chance in an age driven by screens.

(Daystar Assistive Technology Project) (https://daystar.ac.ke/dccc.html)

Even so, the road is far from smooth. Most lecture halls, dorms and walkways remain hard to navigate for students who use wheelchairs, crutches or other aids. On top of that, many lecturers still need training in inclusive methods so every learner feels valued long after the ramps are installed.

Daystar has begun its journey-but real inclusion still costs time, cash, and honesty, and, above all, it asks us to keep pausing and hearing the words of disabled students themselves.

 

Conclusion: Inclusion Is Belonging

 

We cannot talk about equal education if some students are still learning on the side-lines.

Whether it is a dusty government primary school in rural Kenya or a tidy private university like Daystar, the future must be plugged together, not pulled apart. Inclusion means every learner, in every classroom, in every subject.

Let’s not settle for symbolic policies or the odd wheelchair ramp. Let’s build a system where students do not just limp through lessons but feel they own the chairs they sit in.

Because true inclusion is not about separate tracks-it is about weaving all the tracks together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References:

Ministry of Education Opens Recruitment of Teachers for Special Needs Education Course https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/111398-ministry-education-opens-recruitment-teachers-special-needs-education-course

Ministry of Education (2018). Sector Policy for Learners and Trainees with Disabilities. https://planipolis.iiep.unesco.org/sites/default/files/ressources/kenya_sector_policy_learners_trainees_disabilities.pdf

United Nations (2006). Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/disability-rights/united-nations-convention-rights-persons-disabilities-uncrpd

Constitution of Kenya (2010), Article 54. https://www.klrc.go.ke/index.php/constitution-of-kenya/113-chapter-four-the-bill-of-rights/part-3-specific-application-of-rights/220-54-persons-with-disabilities

Basic Education Act (2013), Government of Kenya. https://www.saflii.org/za/journals/ADRY/2014/2.html#:~:text=The%20purpose%20of%20the%20Act%20is%20to%20ensure%20that%20all,of%20some%20children%20for%20accommodations.

Daystar Institute of Disability Studies – [https://dids.daystar.ac.ke/](https://dids.daystar.ac.ke)

Daystar Assistive Technology Centre – [https://daystar.ac.ke/dccc.html](https://daystar.ac.ke/dccc.html)

 

 

By Makena Rachel

A cry for change. Sign the petition today. Courtesy of Usikimye and Joanna Kinuthia.

“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” – Audre Lorde
Amanda Mutheu, 5, was viciously murdered by her uncle on 11th June 2025. Allegedly intoxicated, he threw her off the second floor balcony of her home in Jacaranda Gardens. She was rushed to Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to her injuries.

Abigael Wina Wanjiku, 18, was brutally raped, mutilated and murdered in her home in Mwiki on 19th June 2025. Her mother found her naked in a pool of her blood. She was stabbed five times in the stomach and once in the neck.
The last moments of their lives were filled with a savage brutality that no woman should ever endure. This is femicide. Femicide is the intentional killing of women with a gender-related motivation.
In Kenya, a woman is killed every 18 hours. In 2024, 579 women were killed according to a National Police Service report. Home, a place that should be a safe haven for women, is where 72% of femicides take place.
“When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression”
In order to understand femicide, it is important to realize that it is deeply rooted in misogynistic behavior. There has been a disturbing increase of misogynistic content on various social media platforms in Kenya. This is known as the manosphere.
The manosphere refers to a network of social media influencers and communities promoting male supremacy and antifeminist ideologies. The manosphere claims that men have been disadvantaged by feminism and need to reclaim their power, that feminism has come at the cost of men’s rights.
According to CNN, Kenya was consistently in the top 10 of countries globally using known manosphere words and phrases across X (formerly known as Twitter) in 2023. Kenya’s ranking rose to third in January 2024, coinciding with a rise in femicide cases. Harmless conversations on relationships, jobs and finances turn into toxic arguments about outdated gender norms

Victim Blaming
Alarmingly, young men seem apathetic to the femicide crisis in Kenya. Women are blamed for their own deaths, their stories being subjected to intense scrutiny.
What was she wearing? Why was she out late? What did she do to provoke him? These are common examples of questions used to invalidate victims’ experiences. Victim blaming shifts accountability from the perpetrator to the victim and perpetuates cycles of abuse.
What justifies killing women? What justifies the deaths of Amanda and Abigael who were murdered in their own homes? What justifies the brutal manner in which their lives were taken?

Culture and Gender Norms
Kenyan culture is inherently patriarchal. Gender roles and outdated traditions rule our society. Women are expected to be subservient and long-suffering while men are seen as dominant and providers.
This creates and strengthens power imbalances, where women are continuously exposed to violence due to their social standing. The entitlement to women and their bodies is evident when some men cite rejection or spending money on women as their cause for murdering innocent women.
Femicide should be a crime
“Femicide is a pandemic” – Njeri Wa Migwi

Majority of perpetrators of femicide are not apprehended. This sends a message that the killing of women is tolerated, as it is not widely persecuted, leading to further cycles of abuse and violence. For those who face legal action, the delays in prosecution caused by poor investigations leave them distrustful of the justice system
At the moment, femicide is not criminalized in Kenya. Article 21 of the constitution states that the State shall enact and implement legislation to fulfil its international obligations in respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Femicide violates the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women. So why is it that femicide is not a crime?
The Kenyan government needs to take strides to protect Kenyan women by offering support to victims of femicide, ensuring the apprehension of perpetrators and providing clearly defined legal structures that protect women against femicide.
Kenya has a femicide crisis. Recognizing femicide as a crime is crucial in order to ensure the protection of women, increase accountability and guarantee justice for all victims. Every woman deserves to live without fear. #endfemicideke

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

The TikTok Effect: How One App Reshaped Kenya’s Social Scene

In the past five years, Kenya’s pop culture has undergone a radical transformation, and at the heart of it all is TikTok. Once dismissed as just another social media fad, TikTok has now cemented its place as the driving force behind entertainment, fashion, music, and even the event culture in Nairobi and beyond. With its ability to catapult unknown artists into overnight stardom and make niche events go viral, the platform has single-handedly reshaped how Kenyans experience and engage with popular culture.

The Dance Revolution: Where Moves Go Viral

One of the most unmistakable imprints of TikTok on Kenyan pop culture is its impact on dance trends. From the viral ‘Firirinda’ challenge to the unmistakable Gengetone moves that flood timelines, TikTok has become the go-to platform for dance challenges that define the club scene, street performances, and even school functions. It has created a pipeline where choreographers like Tileh Pacbro and dancers from groups like AfroSync not only showcase their creativity but also gain international recognition.

Gone are the days when learning the latest dance meant waiting for a club DJ to introduce it on a Saturday night. Now, a simple scroll through TikTok floods users with countless tutorials, and within hours, a new dance can take over weddings, nightclubs, and even corporate activations.

The Birth of an Events Culture Like No Other

Beyond dance, TikTok has revolutionized how events are marketed, attended, and experienced. Today, an event’s success is no longer determined solely by mainstream media coverage—it thrives on engagement, reach, and virality on TikTok. Previews of upcoming gigs, behind-the-scenes snippets, and real-time updates drive FOMO (fear of missing out), pushing Nairobians and Kenyans at large to actively participate in experiences that look too good to miss.

Take, for instance, the rise of curated rooftop parties, secret warehouse raves, and cultural festivals. Many of these experiences gain traction through viral TikTok content. Spaces like The Alchemist, K1 Klub House, and The Waterfront have benefitted immensely from TikTok-fueled hype, transforming them into must-visit destinations. The #NairobiNightlife hashtag alone has amassed millions of views, showcasing everything from intimate jazz sessions to high-energy Gengetone extravaganzas.

TikTok as a Cultural Archivist

TikTok has also played a key role in preserving and amplifying Kenya’s cultural heritage. Traditional music, folklore, and even indigenous languages have found a new home on the platform. Songs like ‘Mwomboko’ or ‘Mugithi’ remixes by Gen Z creators blend the old with the new, bridging generational gaps and giving traditional sounds a fresh, global audience. Additionally, content creators are using the platform to educate audiences on history, language, and identity—turning TikTok into a digital storytelling hub.

From Hobbies to Careers: The Business of TikTok Culture

For content creators, TikTok has not just been a fun distraction—it has created entire careers. Influencers who started by casually documenting their daily lives are now raking in brand deals, booking event appearances, and influencing entire fashion and beauty trends. Brands have also recognized TikTok as a goldmine, partnering with creators to push products, sell experiences, and shape consumer behavior. The ‘Nairobi Aesthetic’—a blend of Afro-street style, high-energy nightlife, and curated social experiences—owes much of its global appeal to TikTok’s influence.

The Future: What’s Next for Kenya’s TikTok-Fueled Culture?

With TikTok’s influence growing at an unprecedented rate, Kenya’s pop culture is set for even more disruption. Augmented reality (AR) experiences, live-streamed concerts, and interactive brand activations will only increase, blurring the lines between digital and physical entertainment. The power has shifted—no longer is culture dictated solely by traditional media, but by everyday creators who can turn a simple trend into a nationwide movement.

As Nairobi cements itself as the ultimate chill spot, TikTok will continue to serve as its heartbeat, dictating what’s hot, what’s next, and where the party is at. Whether it’s the next big dance challenge, a fashion craze, or an underground music genre breaking into the mainstream, one thing is certain—if it’s trending on TikTok, it’s defining Kenya’s pop culture.

 

 

By Samuel Owino

Whoever decided that Daystar’s main campus should be in Athi River was wild for it. There was a meeting that had an agenda of, “How do we make these students survive anywhere?” Of all the places, this meeting concluded that Athi River was best. Maybe it was a good deal for money, or it was given to the school—I don’t know. It doesn’t matter though, I think most of us are okay with it, I am.

However, I wish someone had given me a guide on the things that I’d need to survive the Athi River campus, ranging from the scorching heat, salty water, and dusty areas. Luckily for everyone else, I have a manual. Here is a guide on the things that are essential for one’s survival on this campus.

An umbrella

I think that an umbrella is one important thing you need to survive on the Athi River campus. The heat at midday is no joke making moving around during the day a difficult task, one might pass out. The gents might think that having an umbrella will make one lose “aura”, but I think it would be best to normalize it.

Sunscreen

With the clear skies and the semi-arid nature of Athi River, tanning is only natural. Sunscreen is an important product to avoid involuntary tanning. I am sure most people don’t know that by living in Athi River, they get tanned now and again. I don’t think it ever stops until you reach a point of no return, a charcoal basically. I am kidding.

A water bottle

I think this one goes without saying. I can tell you a fact that I bought quite some reusable water bottles on my first day. Luckily, cafeterias have cups, so one won’t struggle much if you live within the school hostels. If you are to live off-campus, be assured the water is salty and you would need storage for the water you fetch.

A resolute mind

Like any other place, peer pressure is among us and the lack of a resolution might draw one to the deep end. The university has its good side, and a very vibrant and supportive community too. If one is not careful, however, one might find themselves in a world of all the vices known to man. A form of yin and yang, choose your side.

A lottery ticket

Due to the lack of options, goods and services around the campus can be very costly. Transport, for example, is relatively expensive. One could use public transport, which is a dollar more expensive than school transport. The twist is that school transport is only offered at specific times, the earliest being 5 a.m. and the latest being 5 p.m., with an 11 am and 1 pm option only available for those coming from the Athi River campus. Convenience would cost you a dollar more.

There are definitely many more things that one needs to survive on Daystar’s main campus or any other campus. This list is a personal take on what I have experienced and what I think are the essential five to get you going. Comment down below your essentials!

 

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

Kenyans have recently found themselves navigating immense pressure amid socio-political upheavals. For the youth, this burden is compounded by academic stress and uncertainty about the future. Mental health struggles are not unique to Kenya; globally, approximately 1 in every 8 people—around 970 million individuals—lived with a mental disorder in 2019, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

In Kenya, mental health concerns have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials report a noticeable rise in cases of anxiety, depression, and other disorders. With a population exceeding 47 million, the country faces a growing mental health crisis that requires urgent attention.

One resource shedding light on these issues is The Psychology of Your 20s, a podcast hosted by Jemma Sbeg. The show explores the science and psychology behind key experiences that shape young adulthood, from relationships and career anxiety to financial pressures and mental health. For students in communication and public relations—fields deeply intertwined with human behavior—this podcast provides valuable insights into navigating this transformative decade.

Supporting Mental Health: Lessons from Episode 224

Episode 224, 5 Ways to Support Someone with Their Mental Health, offers practical guidance on being there for those struggling. The key takeaways include:

1. Listen Actively – Genuine listening is powerful. Offer a safe, non-judgmental space where someone can share their feelings. Avoid interrupting or rushing to provide solutions—sometimes, being heard is enough.

2. Educate Yourself – Understanding mental health conditions, symptoms, and available resources enables you to offer informed support. Familiarize yourself with local mental health services and helplines.

3. Be Non-Judgmental – Mental health struggles can affect anyone. Avoid stigma and recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Encourage professional support when necessary.

4. Offer Practical Help – Small acts of kindness go a long way. Accompany someone to therapy, help with daily tasks, or simply be present during difficult times.

5. Check-In Regularly – Consistent communication makes a difference. A simple message or call can reassure someone they are not alone, helping to combat feelings of isolation.

The Way Forward

As conversations around mental health continue to gain traction, it is crucial to foster a culture of awareness, empathy, and support. Whether through education, advocacy, or personal interactions, everyone has a role to play in addressing Kenya’s mental health crisis.

By integrating small, meaningful actions into our daily lives, we can create a more supportive environment—one that acknowledges mental health as a priority, not an afterthought.

 

 

 

 

 

by Sean M. Pertet

Frieren is a light hearted show that does not simply shy away from fictional politics and violence. Sure, the main character is a dainty mage in a bright-colored yet twisted world. But she is among the most powerful and knowledgeable magic users of her time. Did I mention that she’s practically immortal?

This anime is a bit of a mystery. It starts with the death of a powerful demon king by the hands of Frieren and friends. That our characters have already proven themselves. A bold move that lets us decide what the show means to us.

Combat, philosophy and witty dialogue are woven into this manga adapted production. As juicy as the conflict is, Frieren reminds us of one crucial aspect to all good anime: friendship. Watching her interact with these caricatures make you feel as if you’re with your over-achieving friend. The lazy body you once knew and will never forget. Someone gifted beyond their years.

With Frieren, there’s so much you don’t expect. A new personality trait, a flashback to her millennium long life that sheds light to a progressing story.

Every episode is tranquil; scenes tying to the next. There are no stray plot points or illogical sequences.

The world building is astounding. The little effort put into reimagining a medieval world where myths and kingdoms are a pivotal to the expanse of plot.

Frieren’s beyond journey is a nice twenty-eight-episode watch; wielding an 8.9/10 rating (IMDB). Tailored for your weeks end, normal routine or as a reward for your personal achievements. It doesn’t demand too much attention, the attention to detail is uncanny and every drama or conflict feels comedic rather than high stakes. Frieren can take a dark turn here and there, the question is, will you be ready for tha

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

In a dystopian future, a cloned worker repeatedly dies and is reprinted on a space colony, but chaos ensues when two versions of him coexist, challenging his survival and humanity.

After making history with Parasite, the first foreign-language film to win Best Picture at the Oscars, Bong Joon Ho returns with Mickey 17, teaming up with Robert Pattinson to bring an acclaimed sci-fi novel to the big screen.

The film is based on Mickey7 by Ashton Edwards, published in 2022. With a sequel, Antimatter Blues, already released, there’s potential for a Hollywood sci-fi series—if the movie proves to be a hit. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Here’s everything you need to know about Mickey 17.

Plot Overview

Mickey 17 begins as an exploration of identity and survival but evolves into a political and philosophical reflection. The narrative gains a deeper resonance given today’s political climate, where the idea of tyrannical leadership and societal control feels eerily familiar. The film’s shifting tones might polarize audiences, but its core themes remain compelling.

Cast and Characters

• Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, an expendable worker on a dangerous space mission.

• Naomi Ackie (Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody)

• Steven Yeun (Beef)

• Toni Collette (The Staircase)

• Mark Ruffalo (Poor Things)

While details about the supporting cast’s roles remain scarce, the ensemble promises powerful performances.

Why to Watch Mickey 17

Ratings

• IMDb: 7.4/10

• Rotten Tomatoes: 88%

Bong Joon Ho not only directs but also writes the screenplay for Mickey 17. Even before Parasite, Bong Joon Ho had a stellar directorial career. His past works include:

• Barking Dogs Never Bite (2000)

• Memories of Murder (2003)

• The Host (2006)

• Tokyo! (2008)

• Mother (2009)

• Snowpiercer (2013)

• Okja (2017)

• Parasite (2019) ATTRIBUTION FROM WARNER BROS

What Critics Are Saying

• Bong Joon Ho’s Mastery – The director’s signature genre-blending and subversive storytelling make Mickey 17 a must-watch for fans of innovative cinema.

• Robert Pattinson’s Dual Performance – Pattinson plays both Mickey 17 and Mickey 18, showcasing his impressive range as an actor.

• Satirical Sci-Fi Adventure – A mix of sci-fi, satire, and dark comedy, offering a unique, thought-provoking experience.

• Exploration of Human Nature – Tackles themes of identity, self-worth, and the human condition.

• Strong Supporting Cast – Featuring Mark Ruffalo, Naomi Ackie, and Toni Collette, adding depth and complexity to the film.

• Visually Striking Cinematography – Darius Khondji’s visuals bring the icy planet Niflheim to life with stunning imagery.

• Political and Social Commentary – Sharp critiques of capitalism and authoritarianism make it relevant and engaging.

• Unique Creature Design – The Creepers, a cross between pill bugs and elephants, add an intriguing sci-fi element.

• Blend of Humor and Drama – Balances humor and drama for an emotionally resonant experience.

• Hopeful Message – Despite dark themes, the film delivers a message of hope and resilience.

Final Thoughts

Mickey 17 is shaping up to be a thrilling cinematic experience, blending sci-fi, action, and thought-provoking themes under the masterful direction of Bong Joon Ho. With Robert Pattinson delivering a dual performance and Bong’s reputation for pushing boundaries in global cinema, this film is set to captivate audiences. Sci-fi enthusiasts, Pattinson fans, and those who appreciate deep social commentary will find plenty to enjoy. The stunning visuals and high-stakes narrative promise an unforgettable ride. Mark your calendars—Mickey 17 premieres on March 7, 2025. Buckle up!Check out the official trailer here:

• Mickey 17 | Official Trailer 2 – Watch on YouTube

• Mickey 17 | Official Trailer – Watch on YouTube

 

By Joe Aura

The much-anticipated Shrek 5 is officially set for release in December 2026, marking the return of the beloved green ogre after a 16-year hiatus. The trailer, however, has sparked mixed reactions, with fans divided over the updated animation style. While the star-studded cast of Mike Myers (Shrek), Eddie Murphy (Donkey), and Cameron Diaz (Princess Fiona) is back, the biggest surprise is Zendaya voicing Felicia, Shrek and Fiona’s now-grown daughter.

A Long-Awaited Comeback

Since its debut in 2001, the Shrek franchise has been a massive success, blending humor, satire, and heartwarming storytelling. The original Shrek won the first-ever Oscar for Best Animated Feature and grossed $487 million worldwide. The sequels—Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), and Shrek Forever After (2010)—kept audiences entertained, while spin-offs like Puss in Boots ensured the world of Far Far Away stayed relevant.

New Animation, New Concerns

The Shrek 5 teaser, lasting only 27 seconds, introduces updated character designs that have sparked controversy. Some fans feel the characters’ faces look rounder and more polished, leading to claims that the film has lost its original charm. Comments on social media have compared the redesign to the backlash surrounding Sonic the Hedgehog (2019), which had to be reanimated after fan outrage.

Animation expert Oli Hyatt told the BBC that such reactions are common, especially for nostalgic franchises. “The generation that grew up with Shrek is now older, and there’s often a sense of ‘this isn’t what I knew.’ But advancements in CGI mean we get higher-quality visuals, making the world feel more tangible and immersive.”

A Nostalgic and Fresh Cast

One thing fans can agree on is the excitement of seeing the original cast back. Eddie Murphy, whose performance as Donkey has always been a fan favorite, recently hinted that the character could even get his own spin-off. The addition of Zendaya as Felicia introduces fresh energy to the franchise, and with DreamWorks’ history of weaving in pop culture references, there’s plenty of potential for modern humor and meme-worthy moments.

Balancing the Old and the New

The Shrek 5 trailer leans into its meme legacy, showing Shrek in glasses, dancing in a skintight catsuit, and flexing his muscles. These references will likely appeal to younger audiences while offering nostalgic laughs to longtime fans. Yet, the real test will be whether the film maintains the balance of humor, heart, and adventure that made Shrek a cultural phenomenon.

Final Thoughts: Should Fans Move On?

As animation evolves, franchises must adapt. Movies like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Entergalactic, Klaus, and Arcane have redefined animated storytelling with bold new styles. While I personally appreciate these advancements, I understand the hesitation to embrace a more “realistic” Shrek. Fans need to decide whether they want to hold onto the past or embrace this new era of animation.

What do you think? Does the updated animation style excite or disappoint you? Either way, Shrek 5 is shaping up to be a major moment in animation history.

References

• BBC News. (2024). Shrek 5: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz to return for new film.

• DreamWorks Animation. (2024). Shrek 5 official teaser trailer.

• Collider. (2024). Eddie Murphy hints at a Donkey spin-off alongside Shrek 5.

 

 

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

Big-budget movies often promise spectacle, but some end up sinking entire studios. These films, despite grand ambitions, failed at the box office and led to financial ruin for their production houses.

The Golden Compass (2007)

New Line Cinema had high hopes for this adaptation of Philip Pullman’s novel, investing $180 million. However, it grossed only $70 million in the U.S., leading to the studio’s absorption by Warner Bros. The film’s failure was attributed to creative conflicts and a lack of appeal in the American market.

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

Now a beloved Christmas classic, It’s A Wonderful Life was a commercial disappointment upon release. The film’s dark themes deterred audiences, leading to Liberty Films’ financial collapse. Paramount Pictures later acquired the struggling studio, and the film gained its status only after entering the public domain decades later.

Battlefield Earth (2000)

John Travolta’s passion project, based on a novel by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, was both a critical and financial catastrophe. Franchise Pictures, the studio behind it, inflated its $73 million budget and faced legal trouble. The film’s failure, coupled with fraud allegations, led to the studio’s bankruptcy.

Titan A.E. (2000)

Fox Animation’s Titan A.E. flopped spectacularly, earning just $37 million against a budget exceeding $75 million. Despite featuring voice talents like Drew Barrymore and Matt Damon, the film’s underperformance forced 20th Century Fox to shut down its animation division just a week after the film’s release.

Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (2001)

An ambitious attempt at photorealistic CGI, Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within cost over $137 million but earned only $85.1 million. The film’s financial failure led to Square Pictures’ collapse, ending its aspirations of revolutionizing animated storytelling.

Looney Tunes: Back in Action (2003)

Hoping to replicate Space Jam’s success, Warner Bros. Feature Animation centered this film on its iconic characters. However, it grossed only $68.5 million against an $80 million budget. The failure ended Warner’s plans for further Looney Tunes projects and led to the studio’s closure.

Bangkok Dangerous (2008)

Despite topping the U.S. box office, this Nicolas Cage action thriller had one of the lowest-performing opening weekends. It grossed just $42 million globally, leading its co-production company, Virtual Studios, to shut down due to financial strain.

Life of Pi (2012)

While Life of Pi won multiple Oscars and was a critical success, the visual effects studio behind it, Rhythm & Hues Studios, suffered financial losses. Unable to capitalize on its success, the studio declared bankruptcy shortly after completing the film.

Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)

With a severely slashed budget, Superman IV was riddled with poor special effects and a weak storyline. Cannon Films, which backed the project, was deep in debt and eventually folded, later being acquired by Pathé.

Lessons from Hollywood’s Costly Failures

The downfall of these studios highlights the risks of filmmaking. Overspending, poor audience reception, and mismanagement can turn promising projects into financial disasters. While some films have found redemption over time, their studios were not as lucky.

Sources:

MSN Entertainment

Mental Floss