Director Ryan Coogler and star Michael B. Jordan’s R-rated horror thriller “Sinners” dominated the box office over the weekend, earning $48 million domestically and $63 million globally. This marks a significant opening for an original film in post-pandemic times.
The production costs of $90 million were high, but the studio’s marketing expenses ranged from $50 million to $60 million. To break even, “Sinners” needs to gross around $200 million to $225 million globally. With glowing reviews and a talented cast, box office watchers believe the film will gain momentum on the big screen.
The success of “Sinners” can be attributed to Coogler’s ability to tap into younger audiences, particularly those interested in paranormal exploits. The film received praise from critics, with 64% of opening weekend crowds being under 35 years old. Additionally, the movie appealed to diverse demographics, including Black and Hispanic viewers.
The use of premium formats, such as Imax, also contributed to the film’s success. About half of opening weekend crowds opted for premium large formats, accounting for 45% of ticket sales. This trend is expected to continue, with many studios capitalizing on the momentum of “Sinners” in the coming weeks.
The resurgence of moviegoing has been driven by a combination of factors, including the global phenomenon of “Minecraft.” As success begets success, this trend is likely to lift other movies in the marketplace. With “Thunderbolts” and “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” set for release later this year, the box office is poised for another strong season.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/box-office/sinners-box-office-opening-weekend-takeaways-1236373495