Emma Stone’s Cruella 2 Faces Major Backlash—Here’s Why

The announcement of Cruella 2, starring Emma Stone, has stirred up excitement and controversy alike. While fans of the first movie eagerly anticipate Stone’s return as the titular anti-heroine, the sequel has also drawn significant criticism. Here’s what’s fueling the backlash and why Cruella 2 is under scrutiny before even hitting the big screen.

Why Cruella 2 Is Facing Backlash

1. Concerns Over Originality

One of the biggest criticisms aimed at Cruella 2 is the perceived lack of originality. Some fans worry that the sequel may follow Hollywood’s growing trend of overextending franchises, prioritizing profit over creativity. The first Cruella was celebrated for its bold reinvention of the iconic villain, but skeptics fear the sequel could end up rehashing old themes rather than breaking new ground.

The concerns deepened when Disney released early hints about the sequel’s storyline, which remains under wraps. Fans online expressed doubts, asking if the new movie will truly expand Cruella’s character arc or simply capitalize on nostalgia.

2. Disney’s Recent Track Record

Disney’s recent string of sequels and live-action adaptations has been met with mixed reactions. While films like The Lion King (2019) achieved box office success, others such as Mulan (2020) received lukewarm reviews for failing to capture the magic of their originals. Fans are wary that Cruella 2 could follow suit, especially as the studio seems focused on mass-producing content for streaming and theatrical release.

Critics also argue that Disney’s approach to villain-centered movies, including Maleficent and Cruella, risks diluting the complexity of these characters by turning them into misunderstood protagonists. Many fear that Cruella 2 might further strip away the darker, unpredictable essence of its lead character.

3. Divided Reception of the Original

Although Cruella (2021) garnered critical acclaim for Emma Stone’s performance and its daring visual style, it wasn’t without its detractors. Some audiences felt the film failed to reconcile Cruella’s cruel reputation with her sympathetic backstory. The sequel has reawakened these debates, with viewers questioning whether a second installment is even necessary.

Moreover, fans of the original 101 Dalmatians are concerned about how the sequel might further diverge from the original source material. Cruella De Vil, as portrayed in the 1961 animated classic, was unapologetically wicked—a stark contrast to the more humanized version in Cruella.

4. Potential Oversaturation of Emma Stone

Emma Stone has been lauded for her versatility and dedication to complex roles, with Cruella being no exception. However, her recent string of unconventional projects, such as Poor Things and The Curse, has sparked conversations about whether she risks oversaturating her brand with overly niche or eccentric performances.

Some believe that reprising her role in Cruella 2 could pigeonhole her into Disney’s franchise-driven model, limiting her opportunities to explore fresh, innovative roles.

What Fans Are Saying

Social media has been buzzing with divided opinions. While some fans are thrilled about Emma Stone’s return, others are urging caution. A popular Reddit thread highlighted the mixed feelings, with one user commenting, “The first Cruella was great, but do we really need a sequel? Can’t we just let good movies stand on their own?”

On platforms like Twitter, debates have centered on whether the film’s sequel can justify its existence. Many pointed out that Disney’s emphasis on sequels and prequels often comes at the expense of originality.

Emma Stone’s Take on the Backlash

Despite the mixed reception, Emma Stone remains optimistic about the sequel. In interviews, she has expressed her excitement about reprising the role and collaborating again with director Craig Gillespie and writer Tony McNamara. Stone’s involvement as an executive producer also signals her commitment to maintaining the character’s integrity.

Fans of Stone argue that her creative input could steer Cruella 2 toward success, ensuring the sequel doesn’t fall into the traps of typical franchise fatigue.

Can Cruella 2 Overcome the Criticism?

The success of Cruella 2 will depend heavily on its ability to tell a fresh and compelling story while honoring the spirit of the original. Disney faces the challenge of striking a balance between fan expectations and creative risks. With Emma Stone’s proven acting chops and her involvement behind the scenes, there’s reason to remain cautiously optimistic.

Whether Cruella 2 will win over its skeptics remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the world is watching.