LOS ANGELES, CA – Luca Guadagnino’s latest film, “Challengers,” is set to dominate the U.S. box office this weekend, bringing in an estimated $15 million in domestic ticket sales. Starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist, the film explores the complex dynamics of a slow-burning romantic relationship among its lead characters. This anticipated success comes during a notably quiet week at the movies, making the box office performance even more impressive.
Guadagnino, known for his previous works like “Call Me By Your Name” and the 2018 remake of “Suspiria,” has never been known for creating blockbuster hits. However, the projected earnings for “Challengers” mark a significant milestone for the acclaimed director, showcasing the film’s strong appeal to audiences. The film’s success also highlights the talent of its cast, led by Zendaya’s captivating performance on screen.
In comparison, the faith-based period drama “Unsung Hero,” distributed by Lionsgate, is projected to earn $8 million over the weekend. This story follows the Smallbones, a Christian music family, and their journey to success in the industry. While very different in tone and subject matter from “Challengers,” “Unsung Hero” exceeds box office expectations, indicating a growing interest in faith-based filmmaking among audiences.
Despite the success of these new releases, familiar titles like “Godzilla vs. Kong,” “Captain America: Civil War,” and “Abigail” continue to hold strong positions in the top rankings at the box office. The variety of genres and themes represented in the weekend’s box office results reflects the diverse interests of moviegoers and the enduring popularity of both established franchises and emerging talent in the film industry.