The box office offered mixed fortunes this weekend, with Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans' holiday comedy Red One falling flat, while Ridley Scott's Gladiator II soared to new heights internationally.
Despite its festive theme and star-studded cast, Red One grossed an estimated $34 million domestically. While audiences have been kinder to the film than critics—awarding it an A- CinemaScore—the numbers fail to match the lofty expectations set by its $250 million budget. For comparison, it outperformed Johnson's Skyscraper ($24.9 million) but lagged behind San Andreas ($54.4 million).
On the international front, Red One fared better, bringing in an additional $14.7 million during its second weekend—a modest 43% drop from its debut. This performance marked a surprisingly strong showing for a film initially slated for direct-to-streaming release. Still, the results raise questions about the profitability of such a high-budget venture.
In stark contrast, Gladiator II opened to a triumphant $87 million across 63 international markets, marking Ridley Scott's strongest overseas debut. The sequel to the iconic 2000 film continues to build anticipation ahead of its U.S. and Chinese release. This opening also represents the best start for a U.S. R-rated film from Paramount Pictures, solidifying Gladiator II as a box office force to watch this holiday season.
Meanwhile, Sony's Venom: The Last Dance surpassed expectations, earning $436.1 million globally, outpacing its predecessor Venom: Let There Be Carnage. On the animation front, DreamWorks' The Wild Robot continued its impressive run, reaching a worldwide total of $308.5 million.
As the holiday season ramps up, all eyes are on the competition between family-friendly fare and big-budget spectacles. The box office landscape promises more twists as upcoming releases vie for audience attention.
Red One's lukewarm performance underscores the risks of high-budget comedies in today's theatrical climate, even with A-list talent like Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans. While the film managed decent international holdovers, its domestic numbers highlight the difficulty of recouping a $250 million budget.
Conversely, Gladiator II proves that strong brand recognition and well-crafted storytelling can still draw massive crowds. Ridley Scott's masterful direction and the enduring legacy of the original film have clearly resonated with audiences.
As a fan of holiday comedies, I hoped Red One would deliver a fun and engaging experience. However, the critical backlash and underwhelming box office suggest it may struggle to find its footing. On the other hand, Gladiator II is a clear winner, and I eagerly anticipate its stateside debut.
Which movie are you most excited about this holiday season—Red One, Gladiator II, or another upcoming blockbuster? Share your thoughts below!
