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Universal Pulls SOULM8TE Amid Franchise Struggles

12/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Universal Pictures has removed the erotic thriller SOULM8TE from its release calendar, where it was set for January 9, 2026.
The move follows M3GAN 2.0's disappointing performance, which grossed $39 million against a $25 million budget, versus the original film’s $180 million budget.
Kate Dolan directs SOULM8TE.
Universal is shopping the film to other studios as it reassesses its future in the franchise amid declining interest.

History

Historical Context

The 2023 release of M3GAN, a film exploring the dangers of technology through a killer doll, grossed $39 million against a $25 million budget. This success prompted Universal Pictures to reassess its horror projects, including the removal of SOULM8TE from its release calendar. The shift reflects a broader trend in the film industry, where studios are increasingly cautious about audience reception and box office performance.

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Story summary

Universal Pictures has removed the erotic thriller SOULM8TE from its release calendar, where it was set for January 9, 2026.
The move follows M3GAN 2.0's disappointing performance, which grossed $39 million against a $25 million budget, versus the original film’s $180 million budget.
Kate Dolan directs SOULM8TE.
Universal is shopping the film to other studios as it reassesses its future in the franchise amid declining interest.

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