Four new films with major stars from Hugh Jackman to Michael Keaton opened in North American movie theaters this weekend and only the one with animated puppies fared well.
First place went to “Free Guy,” a 20th Century and Disney release that’s playing exclusively in theaters.
“‘Free Guy’ is a movie that harkens back to the days when strong word of mouth and a really engaged star, Ryan Reynolds, combine to make for a great theatrical-first release,” said Comscore senior media analyst Paul Dergarabedian.
Although the movie is based on an immensely popular Nickelodeon series, its target audience of under 6-year-olds is a wild card.
The studio said the audience who turned out to theaters was diverse and predominately comprised of families with very young children.
Disney’s “Jungle Cruise,” which is available to rent on Disney+ for $30, landed in third place in its fourth weekend in release.
Distributed by Lionsgate, the Martin Campbill-directed action pic about Q’s assassin character Anna, who is seeking justice, got mixed-to-positive reviews.
Searchlight’s “The Night House,” which was very well-reviewed, didn’t connect with its opening weekend audience, who gave it a C- CinemaScore.
Meanwhile, “Reminiscence” with Jackman, Rebecca Ferguson and Thandiwe Newton fizzled with only $2 million from 3,265 locations.
It’s one of several Warner Bros.’ adult-skewing films that have underwhelmed with the hybrid release strategy, including the thrillers “Those Who Wish Me Dead,” with Angelina Jolie and “The Little Things,” with Denzel Washington.
“When people are faced with myriad options, they have to figure out how when and where they can get that content.
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