Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is off to a strong start as it enters its opening weekend, raking in an impressive $10 million in Thursday previews. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the film has managed to capture the attention of audiences, showcasing its box office potential.
The latest installment in the Monsterverse series faced criticism for its fast-paced action and convoluted plot, with some reviewers labeling it as 'overly busy boilerplate.' However, these critiques have not deterred moviegoers from flocking to theaters to witness the epic clash between the iconic creatures.
Surpassing the preview earnings of its predecessor, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire has set a new record for the Monsterverse franchise, signaling a promising start for the film. With a production budget of $135 million, the movie was initially projected to open between $50 million to $55 million domestically and could potentially reach $80 million to $85 million in international markets.
If these estimates hold true, The New Empire is poised to be a commercial success for Warner Bros. and Legendary Entertainment, ensuring the continuation of the beloved monster universe on the big screen. The success of previous entries like Godzilla and Godzilla vs. Kong has solidified the enduring appeal of these iconic characters among audiences.
Director Adam Wingard, who helmed the 2021 blockbuster Godzilla vs. Kong, returned to direct The New Empire, which features a talented cast including Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, and Dan Stevens. The film follows the epic team-up of Godzilla and Kong as they face a formidable threat that endangers the planet's climate.
Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire has managed to captivate audiences and set the stage for a thrilling cinematic experience that promises to deliver on the epic scale fans have come to expect from the Monsterverse franchise.
