As the summer box office begins to really heat up, three new titles will be hoping to shake things up this weekend. However, overall business will probably stumble behind last year, which featured a $125 million launch for Deadpool 2.
Here is the predicted Top 10:
#1: John Wick - Chapter 3: Parabellum ($38 million)
This is a rare franchise that took off with its second installment (which earned $90 million back two years ago) and has audiences largely anticipating what happens next. Benefiting from strong marketing, buzz and a prime mid-May release date, this third entry should be able to ride a higher debut than its predecessor. The only thing that could hold it back a bit will be an R rating which will shut out younger crowds.
#2: Detective Pikachu ($31.5 million, -42%)
Coming off a solid debut last week, Pikachu will remain the top draw for kids and families this weekend. There's concern that it could be a bit front-loaded, but solid word-of-mouth could counteract that. I'm going to predict a middle ground, with a drop around 40%. But, it could land in either park to be honest.
#3: Avengers: Endgame ($30 million, -53%)
With Wick stealing older males, Endgame is likely to have another tumble this weekend. However, it's still moving at a backbreaking pace.
#4: A Dog's Journey ($14 million)
This sequel to the 2017 hit A Dog's Purpose ($65 million stateside) is hoping to draw in families. However, despite solid marketing, buzz hasn't been quite as strong (at least it doesn't have controversy behind it, however). In this case, I'd expect a debut closer to earlier this year's A Dog's Way Home ($11.5 million). But, the fanbase behind W. Bruce Cameron's books remains a solid draw factor here, and the low-key feel will bring in moviegoers not interested in big, special effects extravaganzas.
#5: The Sun is Also A Star ($8.5 million)
This book adaptation is hoping to pull in couples. However, distributor Warner Bros. hasn't really shown signs of confidence in the picture. There hasn't been a lot of marketing, and overall buzz and anticipation is behind many films in the same genre. However, there should be a decent amount of couples looking for a straight-up romance to see this weekend.
#6: The Hustle ($8 million, -39%)
Females will still have Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson to turn to for laughs and entertainment this weekend, as Wick will distract the opposite gender.
#7: The Intruder ($4.5 million, -38%)
This particular film held up surprisingly very well last week. Don't expect something similar here, as Wick will appeal to action fans. However, the suspense thriller should continue to pull in a decent audience.
#8: Long Shot ($4 million, -37%)
Thankfully, there's no added comedy competition this weekend, which means adults looking for pure laughs will continue to come out for this one.
#9: Poms ($3.5 million, -35%)
The only real option in the marketplace for older crowds, Poms should have one of the weekend's best holds, even at a low level.
#10: Uglydolls ($2 million, -51%)
Added competition from A Dog's Journey plus Pikachu and Endgame still pulling in some older kids will continue to mean a fast fade for this animated flop.
