Suicide Squad [Official WB Photo]
“Suicide Squad” predictably dominated the weekend US box office, setting an August record in the process.
According to studio estimates, “Suicide Squad” earned $135.1 million during its first weekend of release.
While that is a bit below the $140 million-plus projection issued Saturday morning, the gross is still a strong one. It is, in fact, the biggest opening weekend mark ever achieved in August. It is the ninteenth-greatest of all time.
“Guardians Of The Galaxy,” which previously held the August record, earned $94.3 million in its first weekend.
For “Suicide Squad,” the question now concerns the film’s longevity. Reviews have not been kind, and suboptimal word-of-mouth may be why “Suicide Squad” missed the aforementioned $140 million-plus projection. “Suicide Squad” is already a hit by virtue of its monster opening weekend, but longevity will determine exactly how big a hit it becomes.
Credited with $22.7 million in weekend receipts, “Jason Bourne” follows at #2. “Bad Moms” takes #3 with $14.2 million, besting the $11.6 million earned by the #4-ranking “The Secret Life Of Pets.” A gross of $6.5 million slots “Star Trek Beyond” at #5.
“Nine Lives” debuts at #6. The film, which received even worse reviews than fellow newcomer “Suicide Squad,” earned $6.5 million.