A quartet of new releases play in theaters this weekend led by Doctor Sleep [DRSLP]. Ewan McGregor stars in the sequel to Stephen King’s The Shining. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the 1980 film adaptation is considered a classic by horror fans. The R-rated sequel sets out to be faithful to both the book and the first film. The resulting 2 hr and 31 min movie was not completely successful according to reviews. Tucked in 3855 theaters, Doctor Sleep could stir up $28 million.
Henry Golding and Emilia Clarke couple up for the romantic comedy Last Christmas [LASTC] inspired by the music of George Michaels. Golding is still buzzing from the massive Crazy Rich Asians, while Clarke is coming off Games of Thrones. Her Me Before You bowed to $18.7 million in June 2016. With a lack of romance movies in the marketplace, the PG-13 film should attract couples as well as multiple fanbases. Last Christmas may take in $16 million from 3448 theaters.
Lionsgate hopes to capitalize on Veterans Day Monday with Midway [MDWAY]. Roland Emmerich directed the PG-13 rated WWII actioner, which has drawn comparison to Pearl Harbor. With lesse rstars and a lack of romantic element, Midway will likely only appeal to the older male demographic. Diving into 3242 theaters, Midway aims to sink $15 million.
Rejected by broader audiences, Terminator: Dark Fate [TERM6] could stumble to a second weekend around $13 million.
Paramount targets families with the PG-rated comedy Playing with Fire [PLWFR]. Star John Cena is unlikely to attract his wrestling fans unless they have little kids. Showing in 3125 theaters, Playing with Fire may douse $7.0 million.
After a strong opening, Harriet [HARET] looks to hold 55% of its debut for a second weekend near $6.5 million.
Fox Searchlight expands Jojo Rabbit [JOJOR] wide to 798 theaters after 3 weeks of limited release. The black comedy could score $3.0 million.
That’s the whisper on the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): DRSLP, LASTC, MDWAY, TERM6, PLWFR, HARET, JOJOR