A couple of long-delayed films finally arrive in theaters this weekend when most of America’s attention is turned to Super Bowl LVI between the Rams and Bengals. First up is Death on the Nile [DNILE], which Disney acquired from Fox back in 2019. Kenneth Branagh returns to direct and star in the sequel to Murder on the Orient Express, which debuted at $28.7 million in November 2017. Death on the Nile has assembled another starry cast led by Gal Gadot. Unfortunately, two other stars have been caught in controversy: Armie Hammer for his sex scandal and Letitia Wright for her anti-vaxx stance. The film’s older target audience are still wary of patronizing theaters. Death on the Nile may admit $13.5 million from 3200 locations.
Jackass Forever [JCKA5] looks to tumble more than 50% in its sophomore session to $11.5 million.
Postponed from last Valentine’s Day, Marry Me [MARRY] hopes a romantic comedy can entice female moviegoers back to theaters. However, Universal decided to hedge its bet and release Marry Me simultaneously on Peacock, which gives Jennifer Lopez fans another reason to stay home. Booked in 3642 theaters, Marry Me may collect about $11.0 million.
Epic disaster Moonfall [MNFAL] should drop around 55% in its second weekend to $4.4 million.
Open Road releases yet another Liam Neeson actioner Blacklight [BLKLT]. The last one, The Marksman opened January 2021 during the pandemic to $3.1 million. The poorly reviewed Blacklight is likely to have a similar per theater average. Showing in 2772 theaters, Blacklight could hit $4.0 million.
That's the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): DNILE, JCKA5, MARRY, MNFAL, BLKLT