I knew when I was making our box office predictions this weekend that I was going out on a real limb; there’s a mix of science and gut when I write, and in this case, my gut was extremely off.
Shazam was the number one film at the box office this weekend, bringing in an estimated $53.7 million. This was on the higher side of what the industry was anticipating, which is a good thing. However, it is worth noting that it’s also on the low end of what a DC or Marvel film, even featuring a B-level character, typically pulls in. Reviews have been solid from critics and fans, so it’s unfortunate the film couldn’t break out to a larger audience. DC and Warner are definitely on the right track with their film slate, though, and even if the numbers aren’t mind blowing, Shazam’s debut is still a success.
Arriving in second place with $24 million is the remake of Stephen King’s Pet Sematary. I thought we’d see a larger crowd out for this film, but as far as I’m concerned, if you skipped this dud, you dodged a bulletin. For more information, you can read my review.
As for the rest of the top five, Dumbo was in third place with $18.5 million. Us was in fourth place with $14.5 million, while Marvel Studios’ Captain Marvel closed things out in fifth place with $12.8 million.
So, to recap, here were our predictions:
1) Pet Sematary – $45 million
2) Shazam – $43 million
3) Dumbo – $19 million
4) Marvel Studios’ Captain Marvel – $13 million
5) The Best of Enemies – $7 million
And here’s how the weekend is estimated to turn out:
1) Shazam – $53.7 million
2) Pet Sematary – $24 million
3) Dumbo – $18.5 million
4) Us – $14.5 million
5) Marvel Studios’ Captain America – $12.8 million
Next weekend sees the release of After, Hellboy, Missing Link and Little. Be sure to check back on Friday to see our predictions!
