Millie Bobby Brown’s career post-Stranger Things is at a crossroads. Can she break free from Netflix and become a Hollywood icon?
Millie Bobby Brown’s portrayal of Eleven in Stranger Things catapulted her to international stardom. I loved her as the enigmatic girl with telekinetic abilities, and soon, she was one of the most recognized young actors of her generation. But now that the Netflix series is nearing its end, I can’t help but wonder about Brown’s career trajectory. Her projects beyond the show haven’t been quite promising, and that’s putting her status at risk, even before she’s reached her full potential.
The Stranger Things Phenomenon and Its Aftermath
Stranger Things and Netflix have given Millie Bobby Brown significant visibility at a young age. However, young actors often face challenges transitioning from a defining role to a broader career.
Millie Bobby Brown Stuck in Netflix’s Streaming Bubble
Since her rise to fame from Stranger Things, Millie Bobby Brown has largely remained within the Netflix ecosystem. I found Enola Holmes and its second installment to be somewhat entertaining, but Damsel didn’t seem impressive at all. Her filmography is largely tied to projects from the streaming giant.
Relying on one platform may limit her exposure to broader cinematic opportunities. Considering that she’s only 21, solidifying herself as a staple on Netflix is a huge accomplishment. But she’s an excellent actress who deserves more exposure and broader cinematic opportunities.
The Electric State: A Critical Turning Point?
The Electric State is already facing criticism for being overly reliant on digital effects and lacking originality. Early reviews of her upcoming film, which is directed by the Russo brothers, are already concerning. With outlets like The Guardian calling it “soulless digital content,” the film is being criticized for over-reliance on special effects and lack of originality.
Some viewers expressed concerns about the film, with one suggesting it might be a “money laundering scheme”. This only adds to the string of Brown’s underwhelming projects, raising concerns about whether she’ll ever be able to break free from streaming platforms.
Stranger Things’ Actress Needs a Rebrand: It’s Time for Serious Roles!
Stranger Things and her continued association with Netflix have offered her the visibility she needs at a young age. But there’s a lack of prestige and critical acclaim that often comes with theatrical releases. Millie Bobby Brown is at a crossroads in her career, and her next move will determine whether or not she can transition from a streaming star to a respected actor in the entertainment industry.
A potential way for her to change gears would be starring in more serious, character-driven projects. While her current body of work showcases her talent, it has largely kept her in the realm of youth-oriented content. But to be a long-term force in Hollywood, actors need to take on challenging roles, similar to Timothée Chalamet’s.
Like the A Complete Unknown actor, she can also star in a biopic, potentially based on the global pop star Britney Spears. Her involvement in such a project could be the turning point that would allow her to distance herself from streaming platforms.
The Influence of Social Media and Public Image
Social media can put pressures on young stars like Millie Bobby Brown. Emma Watson has claimed that harsh social media comments affected her “sanity”. Matt Lucas apologized to Millie Bobby Brown for ‘mocking’ her appearance. Public perception and online interactions can affect career choices and opportunities.
Conclusion
Millie Bobby Brown is at a pivotal point in her career. Her post-Stranger Things choices will determine whether she becomes a fleeting star or a lasting icon. I hope she challenges herself and changes her project selection strategy because only that will determine if she becomes a lasting icon.
