Mel Gibson's "Flight Risk" Debuts at No. 1 Amidst Box Office Slump
"Flight Risk," the latest thriller starring Mel Gibson and Mark Wahlberg, soared to an easy No. 1 opening at the box office, grabbing $4.4 million from 3,161 locations on Friday and preview screenings.
However, turbulence may lie ahead as NFL conference championships could deter moviegoers on Sunday, and critics have torn apart the film, Gibson's directorial follow-up to his Oscar-nominated "Hacksaw Ridge."
Despite its uncertain prospects, moviegoers are also not thrilled, with Cinema Score giving it a C grade. Nonetheless, "Flight Risk" remains in a stable position, being a modestly budgeted thriller that typically sells foreign rights before release.
Challengers Emerge
Neon's "Presence" is vying for fifth place, earning $1.3 million across Friday and previews. The horror film, shot entirely from the perspective of a ghost, has received strong notices but mixed audience reactions (Cinema Score: C+).
Angel Studios' "Brave the Dark" opened in 2,230 locations, earning $920,000. The drama, starring Jared Harris, has positive reviews and garnered a glowing A grade from Cinema Score.
Competition Remains Weak
"Mufasa: The Lion King" is projected to secure second place with $1.8 million on Friday, potentially surpassing $220 million domestic by the end of its sixth weekend.
Sony's "One of Them Days" takes bronze with $2.3 million Friday, projecting a healthy drop of 48% and nearing a $25 million domestic total.
"Sonic the Hedgehog 3" remains in fourth place, poised to cross the $225 million mark in its sixth weekend.
Universal and Blumhouse's "Wolf Man" may challenge for fifth place, but negative reviews are projecting a steep drop (72%) and a total of $17 million.