Sony’s latest Ghostbusters installment, Frozen Empire, is poised for a strong debut at the box office this weekend, despite mixed opinions on its opening numbers. The film's Friday earnings, totaling $16 million, including $4.7 million from Thursday previews, have bolstered Sony's confidence in reaching the $42 million to $44 million mark domestically. However, rival studios are more conservative, predicting a slightly lower $41 million haul, trailing behind the pandemic-impacted launch of Ghostbusters: Afterlife in 2021, which raked in $44 million.
The movie faces some challenges, including moderate reviews and a B+ CinemaScore from audiences, compared to Afterlife's higher A- rating. Additionally, inclement weather along the east coast could dampen turnout. Despite these hurdles, nearly 40 percent of Friday’s box office came from premium-format screens, including select Imax locations, indicating strong interest from moviegoers.
Frozen Empire serves as a direct sequel to Afterlife, which rejuvenated the beloved franchise created by the late Ivan Reitman. While Jason Reitman helmed Afterlife, this time, series co-scribe Gil Kenan takes the director's chair. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including returning members Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Celeste O’Connor, and Logan Kim, alongside original Ghostbusters Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Annie Potts, and William Atherton. Newcomers Kumail Nanjiani and Patton Oswalt join the ensemble.
Kenan and Reitman penned the script, which follows the Spengler family as they reunite with the original Ghostbusters at their New York City firehouse-turned-research lab. When an ancient artifact unleashes a spectral army, both old and new ghostbusters must unite to protect their city and prevent a second Ice Age.
In contrast, Neon's horror offering, Immaculate, starring Sydney Sweeney, is expected to debut at No. 4 with around $5 million. The film, targeted at a younger female audience, follows a nun whose peaceful journey takes a terrifying turn at a remote convent in Italy.
Elsewhere at the box office, Dune's sequel holds strong at No. 2 with an estimated $16 million weekend gross, bringing its domestic total to an impressive $230 million. Kung Fu Panda 4 and Arthur the King also maintain their positions, appealing to spring break audiences with $14.5 million and $4.5 million earnings, respectively.
Overall, Sony's Frozen Empire and the diverse lineup of films in theaters offer audiences a range of options, from supernatural adventures to chilling horrors, ensuring an exciting weekend at the movies.
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