Box Office Showdown: "Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle" vs. "Him" and "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey"

The weekend box office saw fierce competition between Sony/Crunchyroll's "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle," which is on track to become the highest-grossing anime film in U.S. history, and Universal/Monkeypaw's horror film "Him." "Demon Slayer," after a record-breaking opening weekend of $70 million, is projected to earn approximately $16 million in its second weekend, despite a significant 77% drop in ticket sales. Meanwhile, "Him," starring Marlon Wayans and produced by Jordan Peele, is expected to open with around $15 million, falling short of initial projections.

Demon Slayer Box Office Dominates With Huge Milestone, Jordan Peele's HIM Settles At No. 2Hollywood ReporterThe WrapVariety MagazineForbes

"Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle" has already surpassed "Pokémon: The First Movie" to claim the title of the highest-grossing anime film in North America, with a domestic total expected to exceed $100 million this weekend. The film has garnered a global box office total of approximately $508 million, indicating its widespread popularity. Directed by Haruo Sotozaki, "Infinity Castle" is the first installment in a trilogy adapting the climactic arc of the "Demon Slayer" manga.

ForbesDemon Slayer: Infinity Castle Becomes Highest-Grossing Anime in U.S., Surpasses $500 Million WorldwideSony Group Takes On the World with Global “Demon Slayer” Hit ParadeDemon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Infinity Castle Delivers Record Breaking UK Box Office DebutThe Wrap

"Him" debuted in second place at the box office, earning approximately $6.47 million on its opening day, including $2 million from previews. Despite the backing of a prominent producer like Jordan Peele, the film has received poor reviews, with a C- CinemaScore and a 30% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The narrative follows a young NFL quarterback prospect, played by Tyriq Withers, who faces a career-threatening injury and is mentored by a former star, portrayed by Wayans.

Hollywood Reporter

Sony's "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey," featuring Colin Farrell and Margot Robbie, has struggled significantly at the box office, with projections indicating an opening weekend gross of only $3.8 million. Critics have largely panned the film, which has received a 40% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a B- CinemaScore. This disappointing performance marks another setback for Sony, which has not seen a major domestic hit this year outside of "Demon Slayer."

Variety Magazine

Industry analysts have noted that "Demon Slayer" is benefiting from a dedicated fanbase that drives early ticket sales, while "Him" and "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey" are facing challenges due to lackluster reviews and audience reception. The contrasting performances highlight the varying audience expectations and market dynamics for different film genres.

Variety Magazine

Critics have expressed disappointment in "Him," suggesting that it fails to deliver on its horror premise and lacks substance. Similarly, "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey" has been criticized for its weak narrative and lack of chemistry between its leads. The poor reception of these films raises questions about their long-term viability in theaters, especially as they compete against a strong title like "Demon Slayer."

Variety Magazine

As the box office landscape shifts, upcoming releases such as Universal/DreamWorks' "Gabby’s Dollhouse" and Warner Bros.' "One Battle After Another" are anticipated to further influence audience attendance and box office dynamics in the coming weeks. The success of "Demon Slayer" may also prompt Hollywood to reassess its approach to anime adaptations and acquisitions.

The Wrap

• “Demon Slayer is poised to carve up the box office for a second straight weekend.” — Industry Analyst

Box Office Beatdown: Demon Slayer to Crush Him in Second Weekend

• “Him” seems likely to come in second, with “Conjuring” raking up enough cash to manage third place in the upper single digits.” — Box Office Expert

BOX OFFICE: “Him” Underwhelms, “Big Bold Beautiful” bombs, “Demon Slayer” slays by default

• “It’s a rough outing for Sony, which hadn’t landed a big domestic opening all year until its anime label Crunchyroll scored with the licensed release of “Demon Slayer” last weekend.” — Film Critic

Variety Magazine

This weekend's box office results reflect a significant moment for anime films in the U.S. market, while also highlighting the challenges faced by traditional Hollywood productions.

The Wrap