’28 Years Later’, ‘Elio’ Will Try To Take Out ‘How To Train Your Dragon’

This weekend marks an exciting moment in the cinematic landscape, with two highly anticipated movies making their debut: 28 Years Later and Elio. These films represent not only unique storytelling but also the diversity that audiences can enjoy during the summer box office season.

28 Years Later is a sequel that adds a fresh layer to the storyline established in 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later. Directed by the renowned Danny Boyle, the film dives into a post-apocalyptic world plagued by infected individuals. Given the franchise’s history, there is significant anticipation surrounding its release, which is projected to earn between $28 million to $30 million domestically over the opening weekend. Despite this seemingly robust projection, it’s essential to note that advanced ticket sales have not shown the explosive trends that fans might have hoped for. For comparison, its presales have been slightly above those of other recent horror hits like Evil Dead Rise.

On the other hand, Elio, from Disney/Pixar, is capturing the imagination of families with its original sci-fi narrative. Following a young boy’s adventures with aliens, the film’s themes of family connection resonate deeply, especially as it touches on loss and healing. Initial estimates suggest it could reach over $20 million in its first weekend. Although this may seem modest by Pixar standards, the success of animated films nowadays often relies heavily on word of mouth. Early reviews for Elio are promising, holding an 82% ‘Fresh’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which could boost its longevity at the box office.

Together, these films are expected to contribute to a total domestic box office take of around $90 million this weekend. This figure contrasts sharply with the past summer successes such as Inside Out 2, which opened to a staggering $101.2 million last year. However, what is notable about this weekend’s offerings is the variety — a theme consistent throughout the summer season.

Looking deeper into 28 Years Later, critics and fans alike are eager to see where this narrative will take audiences. Many have expressed hope for a strong opening, although pre-release ticket sales have painted a different picture. While the film carries a production cost of approximately $60 million, achieving a $30 million start would certainly be celebrated as a win by Sony. The story revolves around a father and son navigating a dangerous isle populated by the undead, which promises plenty of suspense and thrilling moments.

The film’s release also comes at a strategic time as it will be available in numerous international markets except for China, where it is awaiting approval. The UK and larger European markets are expected to be strong contributors to the global box office, potentially boosting the film’s overall earnings beyond the anticipated $28 million international start.

Meanwhile, Elio is being released widely across North America, slated to play at over 3,750 theaters. The film plans to utilize premium formats effectively, including 725 Premium Large Format screens, more than 2,500 3D screens, and special motion screens, to enhance the viewing experience. Though the production budget stands at around $150 million, the film’s narrative and Pixar’s marketing strategy could unlock additional earnings, especially as it rolls out overseas.

Families and children have increasingly gravitated toward animated films, a trend recently reflected in the box office performances of movies like Elemental and even earlier Pixar outings. Elio shares in this chorus, showcasing a mix of alien adventures and poignant emotional beats that aim to lure audiences of all ages. Following its North American opening, Elio is set to expand to markets in Spain, China, and Japan throughout the summer, which might result in further revenue boosts in the coming weeks.

Both films have crafted significant buzz online, not just from industry insiders but also from fans eager to see the continuation of beloved narratives. As reviews for 28 Years Later come in after the embargo lifts, we’ll have a clearer picture of its potential for both immediate success and lasting appeal in cinemas. Likewise, Elio has a strong chance of resonating with viewers, particularly as families seek engaging content during the summer months.

Amidst this exciting backdrop, there’s also the quirky action-comedy Bride Hard, starring Rebel Wilson, which is entering theaters this weekend. Scheduled for a much smaller release in 2,000 theaters, it’s likely to make very modest earnings in comparison to its counterparts, highlighting the vast differences in public interest and box office potential across genres.

As film lovers prepare for this weekend, the juxtaposition of these stories — one dominated by horror elements and the other by heartfelt adventure — illustrates the rich tapestry of offerings available in today’s cinema. The success of these films could provide critical insights into what resonates with audiences, paving the way for future projects and guiding the evolving landscape of Hollywood.

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