I've noticed there's a big difference between theories that make sense based on evidence and foreshadowing analysis, and theories that are just fun speculation without much backing. Like the theory that Dumbledore is actually Ron from the future in Harry Potter - fun to think about, but doesn't really hold up.
What are some theories you've come across that actually make sense when you examine all the evidence? And what are some that are clearly just wild speculation? I'm particularly interested in Lord of the Rings fan theories and Game of Thrones fan theories that have solid evidence behind them.
Theories that make sense: The R+L=J" theory in Game of Thrones had tons of textual evidence - the blue winter rose at the Tourney at Harrenhal, Ned's promise to Lyanna, Jon's resemblance to Arya who looks like Lyanna. It was a theory that made sense based on careful reading.
Theories that are just fun speculation: "Tyrion is a time-traveling fetus" from the same series. No evidence, just a meme that got out of hand. The difference is that theories that make sense are based on foreshadowing analysis and symbolism in media that the creators intentionally included. Fun speculation is just connecting dots that aren't really there.
Theories that make sense: The Pixar shared universe" theory has actual evidence - recurring elements like the Pizza Planet truck, A113, and consistent rules about how their world works. It's a theory that makes sense based on observable patterns.
Theories that are just fun speculation: "All Disney movies exist in the same universe" because someone found a map that kinda looks like another map from a different movie. No consistent rules, no intentional connections, just pareidolia. The difference is that theories that make sense have predictive power - you can watch a new Pixar movie and look for the Pizza Planet truck. Fun speculation can't predict anything, it just reinterprets existing material in wild ways.
Theories that make sense: The Dumbledore is gay" theory from Harry Potter had textual evidence - his relationship with Grindelwald, his lack of interest in women, Rowling's comments about his backstory. It was a theory that made sense based on character analysis.
Theories that are just fun speculation: "Dumbledore is Ron from the future" has no evidence, contradicts established time travel rules in the series, and doesn't add anything meaningful to the story. The difference is that theories that make sense enhance our understanding of characters and themes. Fun speculation is just playing "what if" without regard for consistency or meaning. Both can be enjoyable, but only one is actually analytical.