From CNBC: 2024-11-01 07:48:05

Three heavyweight Hollywood blockbusters, “Wicked,” “Gladiator II,” and “Moana 2,” are set to compete at the box office in November, with each film aiming to attract audiences and dominate theaters’ biggest screens. The films are expected to perform well both during their openings and throughout the rest of the year.

Premium large format screens, such as IMAX and Dolby, are becoming increasingly popular among audiences seeking immersive viewing experiences. These elevated screens account for 9.1% of the domestic box office, amounting to around $600 million in 2024.

Major theater chains in North America are investing over $2.2 billion to modernize and upgrade cinema locations, including enhancements to laser projectors, sound systems, seating, concessions, and entertainment options like bowling and arcades.

Studios are banking on franchise films to attract audiences to premium large format screens, with blockbusters like “Oppenheimer,” “Avatar: The Way of Water,” and “Dune” dominating these screens. Between 50% and 70% of movies from major studios next year will be tied to existing intellectual property.

The upcoming Thanksgiving holiday could present challenges for “Wicked,” “Gladiator II,” and “Moana 2” as they vie for premium screen locations. Box office analysts have varying predictions for the films’ opening weekend earnings, with “Wicked” estimated to bring in between $85 million and $150 million, “Gladiator II” expected to earn $60 million to $80 million, and “Moana 2” anticipated to exceed $100 million.

Despite differing expectations, the success of these films will ultimately depend on word-of-mouth, audience reception, and competition for premium screen space. The battle for box office supremacy among these blockbuster films is set to unfold as audiences decide where to spend their moviegoing dollars.



Read more at CNBC: Thanksgiving box office showdown shows importance of premium screens