Aquaman 2 may face a weak start at box office
A recent report suggests that Aquaman 2 might face a lackluster start at the box office, especially concerning its anticipated performance in the domestic market. The latest predictions for the final movie in the DC Extended Universe indicate that it could struggle to generate substantial excitement during the holiday season.
According to Deadline, the Aquaman 2 sequel is estimated to earn just over $40 million in its initial four days in North American theaters, potentially falling short compared to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s recent release, The Marvels, which grossed $46.7 million. However, international projections for The Lost Kingdom appear more promising, with expectations of earning up to $110 million overseas by Christmas Eve.
Out of this, around $75 to $80 million is anticipated from a 73% market launch in foreign territories. The Lost Kingdom leads a somewhat underwhelming lineup of holiday films compared to previous years, with concerns among theater owners regarding its potential as the main attraction, owing to negative publicity. The Aquaman 2 follow-up will clash with another Warner Bros.
The Color Purple, expected to gross $8 million domestically on Christmas Day, potentially surpassing its initial weekend estimates due to increased presales. Meanwhile, other recent or upcoming releases like Migration, The Iron Claw, and The Boys in the Boat are each projected to earn under $10 million over the extended weekend.
Wonka seems to be the closest competition to The Lost Kingdom in its second weekend, with an expected gross of over $20 million during the Christmas holiday. The DCEU has faced challenges with underperforming movies in 2023, such as Shazam! Blue Beetle, The Flash, and Fury of the Gods are having trouble at the ticket office.
The Lost Kingdom is set to conclude the DCEU before the transition to the revamped DCU helmed by DC Studios co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran takes full effect. The movie stars Jason Momoa alongside Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, and Nicole Kidman. Momoa, who has portrayed Arthur Curry in the DCEU, expressed doubts about reprising the role of Aquaman 2 beyond The Lost Kingdom during the London premiere of the sequel.
There have been strong rumors linking Momoa to the role of Lobo in the DCU, with Momoa expressing interest in taking on the character. The Lost Kingdom has encountered various potential setbacks, from audience members walking out of test screenings to reported tensions between Momoa and Heard during filming.
On December 22, the Lost Kingdom is scheduled to open in theatres. As the premiere of The Lost Kingdom approaches, the movie’s anticipation remains tinged with uncertainty. The ongoing buzz surrounding the film, coupled with whispers of troubles behind the scenes, has led to a mixed atmosphere among fans and industry insiders alike.
Reports of audience dissatisfaction in early screenings and alleged friction during production between Jason Momoa and Amber Heard have added layers of speculation and concern to the movie’s prospects. Amidst these challenges, the promotional efforts for The Lost Kingdom have continued unabated.
Warner Bros has strategically pushed its marketing campaign, aiming to rekindle interest and allay apprehensions surrounding the movie’s performance. Director James Wan, recognized for his prowess in creating visually stunning spectacles, has maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the film’s thrilling narrative and captivating visuals.
Furthermore, there has been ongoing speculation about Heard’s screen time in the sequel, with her role as Mera reportedly scaled back significantly compared to the original Aquaman 2 movie. Director James Wan has downplayed the negative media coverage, suggesting exaggeration regarding the behind-the-scenes events.
The upcoming Aquaman 2 sequel revolves around Arthur teaming up with his half-brother Orm Marius (played by Wilson) to combat the villainous Black Manta (portrayed by Yahya Abdul Mateen II). Wan has indicated his willingness to consider an Aquaman 2 threequel only if there’s substantial demand from fans.
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