Another long-dormant sci-fi property gets a sequel as Blade Runner 2049 [BLAD2] arrives 35 years after the classic Blade Runner. Harrison Ford [HFORD] revives another one of his iconic character Deckard, who is sought by a new lead protagonist, played by Ryan Gosling [RGOSL]. Though the 1982 original was a theatrical dud, it built up a cult following over time with its dystopic view of the future. Its popularity grew with re-releases including a director’s cut by Ridley Scott. The R-rated sequel directed by Denis Villenueve [DVILL] has earned rave reviews, which has further fueled the positive buzz. Advance ticket sales has Blade Runner 2049 outpacing Interstellar, Prometheus, Gravity, The Martian and Mad Max: Fury Road. This indicates an opening around $50 million, though its fanboy factor and longer running time of 2 hours and 44 minutes may prevent Blade Runner 2049 from breaking Gravity’s October record of $55.8 million. Landing in 4058 theaters, Blade Runner 2049 may hit $52 million.
The Hasbro toyline My Little Pony [MLPNY] gets a feature film adapted from the popular cartoon series. Lionsgate is targeting moms with little girls, but may also attract “bronies”, older male fans of the cartoon. Playing in 2528 theaters, My Little Pony could connect with $11 million.
Kate Winslet [KWINS] and Idris Elba [IELBA] pair up in the survival drama The Mountain Between Us [TMBUS]. The Fox release appeals to only to one demographic: older women. With reviews mixed and little buzz, The Mountain Between Us may settle for $10 million from 3088 theaters.
With its older target audience, American Made [MENA] should hold better than 50% for a sophomore weekend around $9 million.
Despite repeating at the top spot, Kingsman: The Golden Circle [KTSS2] is decaying quickly and should finish its third weekend at about $8 million.
Focus Features expands Victoria and Abdul [VICAB] wide into 732 theaters after earning $1.5 million in 2 weeks of limited release. The historical drama may be able to attract $2.5 million from senior moviegoers.
That’s the whisper on the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): BLAD2, HFORD, RGOSL, DVILL, MLPNY, KWINS, IELBA, TMBUS, MENA, KTSS2, VICAB