We used to trust that a big cape and a famous name were enough to get us into a theater seat. This weekend proved that the old magic might be gone for good.

WHAT HAPPENED

Milly Alcock took flight as the new Supergirl this weekend. While critics say she was great, the ticket sales were not. The movie did not meet the high hopes set by the studio.

At the same time, the hit show 'House of the Dragon' is hitting a wall. Fans are complaining that the new season feels too slow. It seems people are losing patience with stories that take too long to get to the point.

Experts think the way we pick movies is changing. For a long time, we listened to people on social media. Now, those 'influencers' do not seem to have the power to sell tickets like they used to.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS

Opening weekend sales fell below the studio's low-end goals.

• Critics gave Milly Alcock high marks for her acting.
• 'House of the Dragon' reviews are split due to slow pacing.
• Data shows movie influencers are losing their pull with fans.
• The film cost roughly $200 million to produce and market.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Are we tired of superheroes, or are we just tired of being told what to like? For years, paid voices on the internet told us what to watch.

Now, it seems audiences are making up their own minds. If a movie does not look fresh, a famous brand name is no longer enough to save it.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Studios might stop spending so much on internet hype. If fans do not show up for a well-reviewed star, the whole way movies are sold needs to change. This could mean fewer big budget sequels and more original stories.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

Will the studio change their plans for future DC movies?

• How much money did the movie lose in its first three days?
• Will 'House of the Dragon' pick up the pace before the season ends?