The U.K. and Ireland box office saw a lively weekend with Universal’s “Dog Man” leading the pack, as it debuted with an impressive £3.2 million ($4 million), marking one of the year’s biggest openings. This animated adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s beloved book series quickly became a family favorite, capturing the hearts of audiences with its endearing narrative and vibrant visuals. Sliding into second place, Disney’s “A Complete Unknown” continued its successful run, adding $1 million in its fourth weekend, bringing its total to $12.4 million. Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Bob Dylan resonated well with viewers, securing its place as a notable biopic. Meanwhile, “Mufasa: The Lion King” held strong in third place, earning $869,889 in its eighth weekend. This prequel has now surpassed $37.6 million, solidifying its position as a top family film this season.
The weekend also saw the rise of “Macbeth: David Tennant And Cush Jumbo,” a filmed stage production of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, which climbed to fourth place with $858,637, raising its total to $1.9 million. This theatrical adaptation attracted fans of both Shakespeare and the stage, offering a unique cinematic experience. Paramount’s “September 5” made a solid debut, opening in fifth place with $793,853, benefiting from its wide release across over 300 locations. Directed by Tim Fehlbaum and starring Peter Sarsgaard and John Magaro, this film’s strong start hints at its potential for further success in the coming weeks.
Universal’s “The Brutalist” continued its steady performance, earning $581,023 in its third weekend, with a cumulative total of $3.1 million. As an awards season contender, the film has garnered critical acclaim, appealing to audiences seeking thought-provoking cinema. Another family favorite, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” maintained its place in the top 10 with $521,783 in its seventh week, bringing its total to $30.7 million. The enduring popularity of the blue speedster reflects the sustained interest in family-friendly entertainment. Similarly, Sony Pictures’ “Becoming Led Zeppelin” struck a chord with music enthusiasts, debuting in eighth place with $518,927. This documentary offers a fascinating look into the legendary rock band’s rise, attracting fans and music lovers alike.
The sci-fi thriller “Companion” from Warner Bros. earned $455,324 in its second weekend, raising its total to $1.8 million. Despite stiff competition, the film continues to carve out its niche in the market. Rounding out the top 10, Disney’s “Moana 2” added $303,741 in its 11th weekend, pushing its cumulative total to $51.7 million. This animated hit remains a box office staple, demonstrating its lasting appeal and ability to draw audiences weeks after its initial release.
The week ahead promises an exciting lineup of new releases, starting with “Before Nikkah,” an independent British drama from London New Wave. Directed by Haider Zafar and featuring a talented cast, this film delves into themes of love and cultural expectations in contemporary Britain, offering a fresh perspective on modern relationships. Thursday, February 13, marks the return of a beloved character in Universal’s “Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy.” With Renée Zellweger reprising her role as the endearing Bridget, this installment explores new romantic challenges, promising to captivate long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Friday, February 14, brings a slate of highly anticipated releases, led by Disney’s “Captain America: Brave New World,” the latest chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, this film is expected to dominate the box office, offering a fresh take on the iconic character. Animation enthusiasts have plenty to celebrate with the release of “Memoir of a Snail,” an Oscar-nominated film featuring a stellar voice cast, and “The Sloth Lane,” a wide-release animated adventure. Additionally, “To A Land Unknown,” a refugee drama from director Mahdi Fleifel, and Paramount’s “Heart Eyes,” a slasher horror film, provide diverse options for moviegoers. The re-release of “Brief Encounter (80th Anniversary)” gives audiences a chance to experience a timeless classic on the big screen once more. Rounding out the week are several Indian releases, including Malayalam dramas, Telugu comedies, and the return of the Bollywood classic “Hum Aapke Hain Koun!,” ensuring there’s something for every cinematic taste.
