Box office opens strong in January with “Flight Risk” by Lionsgate, debuting with $4.4 million from 3,161 locations on Friday and preview screenings. It becomes Lionsgate’s second No. 1 film of the year after “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera.” Projections suggest a three-day opening north of $11 million, though potential disruptions like NFL games could limit attendance over the weekend.
Critics tore apart “Flight Risk,” which follows Gibson’s directorial follow-up to “Hacksaw Ridge” and budgets modestly for thrillers. Cinema Score gave it a rough C grade. However, its modest budget and Lionsgate’s strategy of selling foreign rights make it resilient.
Meanwhile, Neon’s “Presence” edges into fifth place with $1.3 million earnings across 1,750 locations. It earned strong reviews at last year’s Sundance Film Festival but struggled with general audiences, receiving a C+ from Cinema Score. Angel Studios’ “Brave the Dark” follows in sixth place with $920,000 from 2,230 theaters.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” gains another $1.9 million and aims to surpass $220 million domestically. Sony’s “One of Them Days” adds $2.3 million, while “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” closes out fourth place with projected earnings of $5.1 million in its sixth weekend.
“Wild Horses,” also known as “Wolf Man,” struggles with bad buzz and projects a $3 million take, down 72% from its second weekend. It inch closer to fifth place but faces uncertainty.
Finally, “Moana 2” remains a contender despite being released over two months ago, adding $850,000 on Friday.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/box-office/box-office-flight-risk-opening-day-mark-wahlberg-mel-gibson-1236285084