Overview
- The sequel opened No. 1 at the North American box office this weekend with an estimated $30 million from 4,146 theaters, including $13 million on Friday and $4.7 million from Thursday previews.
- Overseas returns were modest, with roughly $16 million from 77 markets for an estimated $46 million worldwide opening.
- Critical response was poor, with roughly a 36–37% Rotten Tomatoes critics score, while core audiences rated the film highly at about a 92–93% Rotten Tomatoes audience score and a B+ CinemaScore.
- Analysts say the film’s reported $75 million production cost plus tens of millions in marketing and a lower-than-expected start compared with some trackers ($40–45 million) make theatrical profitability and future sequels uncertain.
- The sequel leans heavily on the original 1998 film’s streaming-driven cult following and star reunions, and how well it broadens beyond older female fans over the next weeks will shape Warner Bros.’ fall slate and franchise plans.