Will an adaptation of a cult favourite series from one of the most popular writers on the planet be able to stave off fan skepticism and critical blows to debut at the top of the box office? Here’s our prediction:
Let’s just get this out of the way: I loved The Dark Tower books. I’m a massive Stephen King fan. I am predisposed to enjoy the film that arrives in theaters this weekend, regardless of its quality. But, realistically, this is a hard road for The Dark Tower, based on the scathing reviews its receiving and a fan base that feels let down by many of the decisions that surrounded bringing Roland and the Man in Black to life. There was so much working against this film prior to the horrible reviews, and it appears so many fears are actually being realized. Regardless of how good or bad the performances from stars Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey are, neither actor can open a film, let alone one that was supposed to be the beginnings of a brand new franchise. While there are die-hard fans of The Dark Tower who will venture out this weekend to see the film, reviews be damned, the crossover appeal is going to be limited, and unless there’s a severe difference between critical and audience response a la Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, The Dark Tower is going to underperform below even the initial light projections. Look for a first place debut with $26 million.
As for the rest of the top five, look for Dunkirk to drop to second place with $23 million, though depending on how The Dark Tower performs, we could very well see the film hold on to the top spot. In third place will be Girls Trip with $13 million. Halle Berry’s Kidnap should debut in fourth place right behind with $12.5 million, while The Emoji Movie will close things out in fifth place with $10 million.
So, to recap, here are our predictions:
1) The Dark Tower – $26 million
2) Dunkirk – $23 million
3) Girls Trip – $13 million
4) Kidnap – $12.5 million
5) The Emoji Movie – $10 million
Be sure to check back on Sunday to see how the weekend turns out!
