Los Angeles, California – The new movie “Challengers,” starring Zendaya and directed by Luca Guadagnino, has made an impressive $1.9 million in previews before its official release. The film is aiming to open to a weekend debut of $15 million. Critics have given “Challengers” a positive reception with a certified fresh rating of 91%, but audience reactions have been more mixed, with three stars on Screen Engine/Comscore’s PostTrak. The film appeals to a diverse audience, with men over 25 particularly enjoying it.
Originally scheduled for a mid-September release, “Challengers” was moved to this weekend due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. Despite the change in release date, the film’s star power, particularly Zendaya’s global influence with her 184 million Instagram followers, is expected to drive strong box office numbers. The decision to change the release date appears to have been a wise move strategically.
In a similar vein, Lionsgate and Kingdom Story’s “Unsung Hero” also had a successful preview, earning $1.67 million. The faith-based film depicts the inspiring story of David Smallbone and his family’s journey to the United States, where he becomes a Grammy Award-winning artist. Early audience reactions to “Unsung Hero” have been positive, with high ratings on PostTrak exits.
On the other hand, early industry estimates for previews of “Boy Kills World” indicate a more modest opening, with RT reviews and audience reception hovering around 60%. The film, acquired from TIFF Midnight, is likely to appeal to a specific audience with its high-octane action sequences.
As the week progresses, other films such as “Civil War,” “Abigail,” “Godzilla x King,” “Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” and “Kung Fu Panda 4” continue to generate revenue and captivate audiences in theaters across the country. The box office landscape remains dynamic, with each film offering a unique viewing experience for moviegoers.