It looks like couples were seeking action more than romance because Alita: Battle Angel dominated Valentine’s Day box office and now seems poised to win the weekend.
Alita took in $8.7 million on the day of love, which includes the $2.4 million it made in Wednesday night previews. Also encouraging is that the film received an “A-” CinemaScore from opening night audiences which is very encouraging for potential word of mouth. If Alita can reach $40 million by Monday, the studio will be happy internally but they are well aware that more money needs to be made to break even on the alleged $170-237 million budget. It may not be all doom and gloom, especially if international box office becomes more potent but it’s still an uphill battle. Some are comparing it Blade Runner 2049 which also received an “A-” CinemaScore grossed $40.7 million over Columbus Day weekend but carried a hefty $155 million price tag. That film tapped out with $92 million domestically and $167.1 million worldwide, not enough to bring a profit for the studio after factoring in huge marketing costs.
Isn’t It Romantic claimed second place with $4.4 million on Valentine’s Day and brings its two day gross to $6.2 million. The hope, according to the studio, is that the $31 million film will see $20 million by Monday. It will actually be a bit of a close race with What Men Want, which did solid business on Valentine’s Day with $3.2 million as it’s another comedy option out there in the marketplace.
Happy Death Day 2U is coming in below expectations with $2.7 million on Valentine’s Day. It’s two day total is now at $3.2 million and after seeing the film, which I loved, it’s definitely not going to be for everyone as it’s way more heavy on comedy and sci-fi, rather than the slasher/comedy of the original. The film cost $9 million to make so Blumhouse will profit but it’s definitely stalling a bit.
