Over the weekend, Crunchyroll/Sony Pictures’ volleyball anime movie, Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle, made an impressive $800K in previews. Despite facing tough competition, the film managed to capture the attention of audiences and generate significant buzz. This success is a testament to the popularity of the Haikyu!! franchise, which has a dedicated fan base eagerly awaiting each new installment.
The movie follows the story of Shoyo Hinata as he joins Karasuno High’s volleyball club in pursuit of his dreams. Along the way, he must learn to work with his former middle school rival, Tobio Kageyama, to achieve success on the court. The dynamic between the two characters and their journey towards the highly anticipated “Dumpster Battle” against Nekoma High is sure to captivate both fans of the manga series and newcomers alike.
While Haikyu!! may have emerged as a strong contender at the box office, it faces stiff competition from other releases. The Garfield Movie, expected to secure the top spot with a $12M second frame, is set to dominate the weekend box office. Additionally, Warner Bros.’ Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is projected to take second place with a $10M take in its second weekend, despite a -60% drop in earnings.
In a Violent Nature, IFC’s horror movie, is also making waves with its widest release to date at 1,400 locations. The film has received critical acclaim, boasting an impressive 89% certification on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed and written by Chris Nash, the movie promises a gripping and terrifying narrative that is sure to resonate with audiences looking for a thrill.
Roadside Attractions’ Summer Camp, starring Diane Keaton, Kathy Bates, Alfree Woodard, and Eugene Levy, is expected to see modest earnings at 7% in the comedy genre. The film follows three childhood friends reuniting for a summer camp reunion, exploring themes of friendship, nostalgia, and personal growth.
Ezra, featuring a star-studded cast including Robert De Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Vera Farmiga, Rainn Wilson, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rose Byrne, premiered at TIFF before its wide release. The film centers around comedian Max and his autistic son Ezra as they embark on a life-changing road trip, grappling with difficult decisions about the future.
Despite the star power behind Ezra, the film is projected to garner low single-digit earnings at the box office, highlighting the challenges of releasing independent films in a competitive market. Similarly, The Book Club demo-leaning feature, starring Diane Keaton and Kathy Bates, is facing criticism from reviewers, indicating a tough road ahead for the comedy.
Overall, the weekend box office presents a diverse range of offerings for audiences, from heartwarming comedies to gripping horror films. While some releases may struggle to find their footing, others, like Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle, shine brightly, captivating viewers with their engaging storylines and compelling characters. As the box office continues to evolve, audiences can expect a mix of surprises and disappointments, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape for filmmakers and moviegoers alike.