Overview

• A24’s biographical drama opened October 3 with roughly $5.9–$6 million domestically, falling well below $8–$15 million projections and ranking among Johnson’s softest debuts.
• Johnson wrote on Instagram that box office results are beyond control and thanked director Benny Safdie for the chance to fully transform for the role.
• Following a Venice premiere that drew a reported 15-minute standing ovation, reviews have been strong, with some critics forecasting Best Actor recognition for Johnson.
• WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle praised Johnson on X as one of today’s top performers and said the film deserved an Oscar.
• Reporting points to a younger, male-skewing audience with only 8% over 55, a digital-first marketing push, and competition from Taylor Swift’s concert film, with the budget reportedly around $40–$50 million.