It might be number one, but that does not always indicate a promising landing. Henry Cavill and Bryce Dallas Howard’s latest blockbuster, Argylle, has misfired for its opening weekend at the box office. The $200 million budgeted spy comedy from Matthew Vaughn earned $35 million worldwide, $18 million domestically, and the rest from international markets.
There was no other competition for Argylle at the box office. February has started off as a dry spell for other big-budgeted films that could have rocked its boat until Madame Web swings onto the big screen on Valentine’s Day. The one safety net comes from Apple TV Plus as the film was meant to be on the streaming service with not as much importance of a big screen treatment, unlike traditional studios.
Apple TV Plus Spent $200 Million on Argylle, Which Flopped During Its Opening Weekend at the Box Office
In a post-2019 world, one of the main drivers for a film’s success is its reception, both from critics and audiences. People talking could save a movie, whether it is a massive money sink or an indie darling. On Rotten Tomatoes, critics largely disliked the film, which resulted in a 34%. Audiences, at least on RT, resulted in a passing 71%. It also scored a C+ on CinemaScore and 6.1 on IMDB, showing a lack of enthusiasm from audiences.
The film was loosely based on the novel of the same name by Elly Conway. The Jurassic World star played the author, whose stories were becoming a reality. It then submerged her into a real spy thriller as she became an important asset. The adventure also starred Sam Rockwell, Bryan Cranston, Dua Lipa, John Cena, and more.
Argylle bombing at the box office has not been a total surprise. The current landscape for the last four years has been difficult for the theater business. Due to the convenience of streaming and the threat of COVID, many people have stayed home to watch what Hollywood has to offer. Whether it was due to social media hype, a positive reception, or a beloved franchise, some have found success. For larger budgeted films in recent years, Barbie, Oppenheimer, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Top Gun: Maverick, and Jurassic World: Dominion have proven $100-200+ million dollars could be well spent under the right circumstances.
