NRG and Screen Engine, along with other box office tracking services, are predicting a remarkable domestic opening for Disney/Marvel Studios’ highly anticipated film, “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Estimates suggest that the film could debut between $160 million and $165 million, setting a new record for the highest opening weekend for an R-rated movie.
The original “Deadpool,” released in 2016, currently holds the record for the biggest R-rated opening with $132.4 million. However, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is poised to surpass that figure, with some projections even suggesting a potential opening of $200 million, according to analytics group Quorum. This film is generating significant buzz, with many fans declaring that summer won’t truly begin until its release.
One factor that could contribute to the film’s success is the strong walk-up business from Latino and Hispanic audiences, which tracking services have often overlooked. Disney appears confident in the $160 million range for the film, which features the dynamic duo of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, directed by Shawn Levy. Current presales are at $19 million, which is slightly behind “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” but ahead of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
In an effort to broaden the film’s appeal, Disney is also looking to attract a female audience. Reynolds’ character, known for his irreverent humor, recently sparked rumors of a potential cameo by pop star Taylor Swift, further heightening interest in the film.
As the release date approaches, Reynolds and Jackman have embarked on a global promotional tour, starting with a fan event in Shanghai. The previous two “Deadpool” films received A CinemaScores, indicating strong audience approval, which bodes well for the new installment.
The excitement surrounding “Deadpool & Wolverine” is palpable, with many anticipating it to be a major hit. If the film opens as projected, it will not only be the biggest opening of 2024 but also the largest ever for an R-rated film. This achievement would be particularly impressive, considering that only 17 films have ever opened to over $170 million at the domestic box office, all of which have been PG-13 rated, with the majority being Disney titles.
The film’s success is crucial for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), especially following a challenging period for theaters. The anticipation for “Deadpool & Wolverine” reflects a broader trend of audiences returning to cinemas for blockbuster films, signaling a potential resurgence in the box office.
As the countdown to the film’s release continues, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an action-packed and humorous adventure. The combination of Reynolds and Jackman’s star power, along with the film’s R-rated edge, sets the stage for a record-breaking debut that could redefine the landscape for superhero films.
Source: Hollywood Reporter
