Dan Trachtenberg’s latest film, “Predator: Badlands,” is on track to achieve a remarkable $40 million in its domestic opening weekend, setting a new record for the 20th Century Studios franchise. This figure surpasses the previous record held by “Alien vs. Predator,” which debuted at $38.2 million. The impressive opening weekend is a clear indication of the film’s success and popularity among audiences.
The film’s performance has been bolstered by strong word-of-mouth, particularly from younger viewers. Initial estimates indicated a modest audience on its opening day, with a total of $15.6 million from day one, including previews. Remarkably, ticket sales saw a mere 10% drop on Saturday, with the film earning an additional $14 million. Such sustained performance is noteworthy, as it mirrors trends observed in previous hits like “The Conjuring: Last Rites” and “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle,” both of which experienced similar patterns in September.
Global Reception and Box Office Milestones
Internationally, “Predator: Badlands” has garnered an impressive $40 million, bringing its global opening total to $80 million. This marks the largest worldwide opening for any film in the “Predator” series to date. The film’s success reflects not only its appeal across various demographics but also its ability to resonate with audiences outside of the United States.
Producer Fred Rosenblatt provided insights into the film’s development, revealing that original “Predator” star Arnold Schwarzenegger has engaged in multiple discussions with director Dan Trachtenberg. In a statement to Deadline, Rosenblatt noted, “Arnold and Dan have met a couple of times now. He’s a real fan of what we’ve done so far, from what I understand.” This connection to the franchise’s roots may further enhance the film’s appeal to long-time fans.
As the numbers continue to be tallied, “Predator: Badlands” stands as a testament to the enduring popularity of the franchise. With its strong opening weekend and positive reception from audiences, the film is poised for continued success in the coming weeks.
