Mockbuster facts for kids
A mockbuster is a movie made to look very similar to a popular, big-budget film. These movies are often created quickly and cheaply. They are usually released directly to video or streaming services around the same time the original, well-known movie comes out in theaters.
Mockbusters are sometimes made so that people might accidentally buy them instead of the movie they really wanted to see. For example, someone might think they are buying the movie Transformers, but they actually get Transmorphers. This movie was a mockbuster released in 2007. Because of this, mockbusters often have titles that sound very much like the original movie's title.
What Are Mockbusters?
A mockbuster is also known as a "knockbuster" or a "drafting opportunity." The main idea behind them is to use the excitement and advertising of a major film to get attention for a much cheaper movie. They are usually made with a very small amount of money compared to big Hollywood movies.
These films are not shown in cinemas. Instead, they go straight to home video, like DVDs, or are available on online streaming platforms. This often happens at the same time the popular movie they are copying is released.
Why Are They Made?
The main reason mockbusters are made is to earn money by confusing customers. Imagine a big movie like "The Avengers" is coming out. A company might quickly make a movie called "The Avenging Heroes" with a similar-looking cover. People might see it and think it's related to the big movie, or even mistake it for the real one.
This strategy helps the mockbuster get noticed without spending a lot on advertising. They rely on the marketing of the original, famous movie. The goal is for people to pick up the mockbuster by mistake, especially in stores where movies are displayed close together.
Where Do Mockbusters Come From?
Many mockbusters are made in different countries than the original movies they copy. For example, there are many Turkish, Italian, German, French, and Brazilian versions of popular American movies. Sometimes, these countries even make their own "sequels" to famous movies that were not made by the original creators.
This practice shows how filmmakers around the world try to take advantage of popular trends. They create their own versions or follow-ups to well-known stories, often with a unique local twist.
See also
In Spanish: Mockbuster para niños
