Will 'Aquaman 2' save the Christmas box office?
Phoenix Theatres, known for banking on major releases during the holiday season, faces a unique challenge this year. Owner Cory Jacobson notes the absence of a standout film like past hits «Avatar: The Way of Water,» «Spider-Man: No Way Home,» or «Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.»
The spotlight now shifts to «Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom,» the sequel to the 2018 megahit.
However, industry insiders express uncertainty. Will the Jason Momoa-led adventure replicate the success of the original, or will it follow the disappointing trend of recent DC films? Jeff Bock, an analyst with Exhibitor Relations, observes, “The holiday season is on the shoulders of ‘Aquaman,’ and that’s not a good shoulder to put anything on.”
Strikes and Setbacks
Amidst recovery from pandemic setbacks and Hollywood strikes, theater owners must focus on the positive.
Jordan Hohman, VP of Phoenix Theatres, emphasizes the benefits of a diverse film slate to spread their bets. The holiday lineup includes "Wonka," «Migration,» «The Iron Claw,» and «The Color Purple,» with optimism centered on family-friendly, shorter films that boost popcorn sales.
Despite these efforts, the absence of a billion-dollar tentpole looms large.
Jim Orr, Universal’s president of domestic theatrical distribution, predicts a less spectacular Christmas season, hoping it provides room for other films to shine. The year’s box office revenues have reached $8 billion, showing progress but still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels.
The industry faces challenges as it grapples with strikes and uncertainties about project timelines.
