Theater counts: Despicable Me 4 remains the widest release entering its second frame

July 11, 2024

It was a solid debut for the number one film at the box office, as Despicable Me 4 dominated with five-day domestic earnings of $122.6 million after opening in 4,030 theaters on July 3rd. The latest installment has since turned up another $34 million, taking its eight-day total to $157.28 million. As no mega blockbuster films are set to open this weekend, Despicable Me 4 and Inside Out 2 should once again find themselves in the number one and number two positions, respectively, at the box office.

Sony Pictures is bringing a new romantic-comedy to the screens with Fly Me to the Moon, starring Channing Tatum and Scarlett Johansson. Set against the backdrop of NASA’s space program in the 1960s, the film follows a marketing expert tasked with improving the program’s public image, leading to clashes with the launch director amid an already challenging mission. Directed by Greg Berlanti, the movie will debut in 3,356 theaters, offering a blend of romance, comedy, and historical intrigue for moviegoers looking for something different this weekend.

Also opening in wide release this week is the 1990s-set horror flick, Longlegs, starring Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage, the latter playing the titular character. Making its debut in 2,500 cinemas, the film follows an FBI agent who uncovers a series of occult clues that she must solve to end an elusive serial killer’s terrifying killing spree.

Making its way back into theaters for its 30th anniversary this weekend is the beloved animated classic, The Lion King. The musical has earned just short of $1 billion in worldwide revenue over its tenure and has spawned numerous follow-up features, including the upcoming Mufasa: The Lion King, which is set to open on December 20, 2024. With its re-release in 1,330 venues this weekend, fans both old and new will have the opportunity to experience the magic of Simba’s journey on the big screen.

Despicable Me 4 remains widest release, adding 21 cinemas for a total of 4,449 this weekend. Occupying the spot as the second-widest release is Inside Out 2, which adds 55 locations itself for a total of 3,815 cinemas. The film currently enjoys $1.27 billion in global receipts, including $548 million from domestic showings and $720 million from overseas play. Despite losing 310 theaters this weekend, A Quiet Place: Day One is still easily accessible in a solid 3,378 movie houses. Lastly, Kevin Costner’s Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1 loses 747 theaters for its third weekend, but can still be seen on the big screen in 2,587 locations.

Two films worth mentioning opening in limited release this weekend are Dandelion and Icelandic romantic-drama Touch. The former will be available in 446 theaters, while the latter will make its way into 316 locations. Both films seem poised to offer unique viewing experiences amidst the wider theatrical landscape.

Looking ahead to next week, we see the debut of two wide releases: The Oddity, and Twisters. The latter is projected to begin its run in approximately 4,000 cinemas.

Filed under: Theater Counts, The Lion King, Despicable Me, Inside Out, Nicolas Cage, Kevin Costner, Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum, Greg Berlanti, Maika Monroe