“Alien: Romulus” Debuts at Number One with $41.5 Million Opening Weekend
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/19th August 2024
“Alien: Romulus” has surged to the top of the USA domestic box office with a stellar opening weekend haul of $45.1 million, surpassing initial projections that estimated a debut in the high $20 million range. This impressive performance makes it the second-best opening for the franchise to date, not accounting for inflation. In a noteworthy shift, “Alien: Romulus” has overtaken Marvel Studios’ “Deadpool & Wolverine” to claim the leading position in the box office rankings.
The film has drawn a diverse audience, appealing to both younger and older male viewers, marking another triumph for the Disney film empire. Disney now commands 42 percent of the summer box office revenue, underscoring its dominant position in the market. Internationally, “Romulus” has also performed admirably, debuting with $66.7 million and achieving a global total of $108.2 million. This strong showing reflects the film’s broad appeal and successful marketing strategy.
Critics have responded positively to “Alien: Romulus,” awarding it an 82 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Additionally, the film has received a near-franchise best B+ CinemaScore, indicating favorable audience reception. This eighth installment in the Alien franchise is set between Ridley Scott’s original 1979 film “Alien” and James Cameron’s 1986 sequel “Aliens,” continuing the legacy of the iconic sci-fi series.
“Romulus” is an R-rated film produced by Ridley Scott, which explores the harrowing experiences of young colonists who discover an abandoned space station and encounter the dreaded alien creature central to the franchise’s lore. The cast features Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, and Spike Fearn, bringing fresh talent to the beloved series.
Initially planned for a streaming release on Disney-owned Hulu, the film was ultimately given a theatrical release as production progressed. This decision has proven fruitful, as the film’s box office success highlights the enduring popularity of the Alien franchise and Disney’s effective distribution strategy.
Overall, “Alien: Romulus” has made a significant impact in its opening weekend, establishing itself as a major player in the current box office landscape. The film’s strong domestic and international performance, coupled with positive critical feedback, sets a promising stage for its continued success. As audiences flock to theaters to experience the latest chapter in the Alien saga, Disney’s decision to prioritize a theatrical release has clearly paid off.
