Quoted from TigerLaw:We like creativity.
There is that, and perhaps "lastability" (if that word exists) as a licensed theme will age with the movie / band that gave its name. I really doubt that the CSI backglass will be considered as a classic in 20 years... There are exceptions: "Black Hole" for example. Who remembers that 1979 or 1980 Disney movie? The pin is far superior!
Of course some licensed movies/books (WoZ for ex), characters (Ali) or bands (ACDC...) may become legendary. Better be a good pin then !
Does not mean I do not like licensed themes (I do love Predator...), but I really enjoyed the non-licensed Circe and Captain Nemo projects. Cool ideas. But you can't sign up for all!