Month: January 2022

Disney+’s newest entry into the Star Wars TV canon–and second live-action offering after The Mandalorian–follows the original film trilogy’s most notorious bounty hunter. Here’s what you need to know about The Book of Boba Fett:

How does Boba Fett’s audience compare to other of Disney+ Star Wars series?
Its viewer demographics (64% male / 64% 30+) are nearly identical to those of The Mandalorian but skew older than the audiences for animated programs like The Bad Batch and Visions.

Are the same story elements driving interest in both live-action Star Wars originals?
No. While their shared franchise connection is undeniably crucial to their longevity, The Mandalorian has found success primarily by tracking a core Mission (160), while Boba Fett’s appeal is centered around building out the broader Star Wars Universe (125).

How do the key emotional drivers for Boba Fett compare to those of The Mandalorian? 
They’re a study in contrasts. Boba Fett’s suspenseful, dark plunge into Tatooine’s criminal underworld introduces Terror and Surprise, which contrasts sharply with The Mandalorian’s more whimsical journey with baby Grogu and feelings of Awe and Amazement.

What is the impact of the central character in each live-action Star Wars series?Though opposites in nature, both drive engagement. Anti-hero criminal Boba Fett’s Tough Guy (114) posturing allows for Stylized Violence (124) inside a Criminal Organization (117), all of which boost series viewership. For The Mandalorian, engagement depends on the more traditionally heroic Mando’s Bravery (132) and Stepping Up (133) when needed.

How has Boba Fett’s social tracking differed its series predecessor?
It’s been positive but more variable. In contrast, buzz for The Mandalorian skyrocketed with its Season 1 premiere and remained consistently high throughout its first month of release – fueled by it being the first Star Wars live-action offered on Disney+.

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How does the prequel’s audience differ from that of the original series?
It’s markedly younger and more male. The move from linear to streaming-only has shifted viewer demographics younger, while the more traditional western themes are driving more males. Yellowstone: 49% male / 88% 35+, 1883’s 61% male / 67% 30+.

Is this a short term spin off or long term franchise piece?
A long term piece of the franchise. The IP Extension (121) is a top driver for the prequel’s longevity, and the parallels between 1883’s Dutton family and their direct descendants on Yellowstone not only hook audiences, but will keep them invested for multiple seasons. The fact that both shows will inform each other will also help sustain viewership long term.

What’s driving the success of both series?
They’re all about family. Just like its predecessor, 1883 primarily focuses on the soapy, dramatic Family Life (137) and Family Relationship (129) of the Dutton clan, critical ratings drivers for both shows. That said, while Yellowstone’s family themes were more rooted in building an empire together, 1883 will be successful by emphasizing the Dutton family coming together as they traverse brutal the Great Plains to stake their claim in Montana.

How does Sam Elliot’s character impact the show’s dynamics?
He adds complexity to the suspense. The compelling questions of Trust and Loyalty (141) introduced by his mysterious cowboy character not only drive ratings but also bingeability and social buzz.

Does the inclusion of more traditional western action help 1883’s ratings?
Somewhat. While the series’ brutal, gun-based Action & Violence (118) helps mostly with social buzz, it also leans into themes of Bravery (127) and Survival Skills (116) that more directly impact viewership.

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