Los Angeles, CA – “Lisa Frankenstein” disappointed at the box office, earning barely $1.7 million on its opening day and facing a lackluster debut weekend with an estimated $4 million in ticket sales. This tepid start for the horror-romantic comedy is far from ideal, especially given the modest $13 million production cost. The movie, penned by Diablo Cody and starring Kathryn Newton and Cole Sprouse, has received mixed reviews and is not generating much excitement among audiences, as indicated by a “B” grade from Cinema Score.
As the 2024 box office continues to underperform, “Lisa Frankenstein” is just one indication of the industry’s current slump. With no domestic releases expected to surpass $10 million, the Super Bowl weekend is proving to be a quiet period for studios, compounding the ongoing challenges faced by Hollywood in recent times. The lackluster performance of “Argylle,” which is poised to retain the top spot at the box office after a disappointing opening weekend, further exemplifies the struggles facing the film industry.
In contrast, Warner Bros. is re-releasing Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune” in premium large formats ahead of the sequel’s debut, highlighting the enduring appeal of the sci-fi epic. Meanwhile, other releases such as “Wonka,” “The Beekeeper,” and “Migration” are projected to make around $3 million in gross sales, contributing to the overall subdued state of the box office.
Looking ahead, exhibitors and industry insiders are hoping for a resurgence in business with the upcoming Valentine’s Day debuts of “Madame Web” and “Bob Marley: One Love,” which could provide a much-needed boost to the industry. As Hollywood grapples with the ongoing challenges in the post-pandemic landscape, the performance of these upcoming releases will be closely watched to gauge the industry’s path to recovery. Overall, the lackluster opening of “Lisa Frankenstein” and the subdued box office forecast signal a continued struggle for the film industry as it navigates unprecedented challenges in the current climate.