Despite all odds, the costly spy-comedy Argylle directed by Matthew Vaughn, is falling short of expectations at the North American box office. This unfortunate result comes as a blow to Apple’s theatrical aspirations. The film, which cost a staggering $200 million to create, failed to appeal to both critics and consumers, raking in a disappointing estimated opening of $16.5 million.
A Boastful Budget But Little in Returns
Argylle cost a shocking $200 million to produce, excluding marketing costs. However, the box office returns have been meager. On its Friday release, it grossed only $5.6 million for an estimated opening tally of $16.5 million. The movie’s performance overseas is barely any better, where its estimated weekend opening stands around $16.9 million.
The Current State of Apple’s Theatrical Ambitions
Apple, primarily known as one of the wealthiest tech companies globally primarily focused on content streaming, faces different expectations for its theatrical endeavors. However, even by these standards, should established Hollywood studios have released a movie costing $200 million with results similar to Argylle, they would be heavily criticized.
Star-Studded Cast But No Box Office Magic
Despite its lackluster performance, Argylle boasts a star-studded cast, including Bryce Dallas Howard, Henry Cavill, and Samuel L. Jackson, among others. Sadly, the glittering galaxy of stars couldn’t save it from its box office downfall.
Apple’s Costly Tryst with Films
Argylle marks Apple’s third traditional theatrical release in recent months, following Martin Scorsese’s Oscar-nominated Killers of The Flower Moon and Ridley Scott’s Napoleon, costing $200 million or more to produce. The industry hopes that Apple Original Films will continue throwing its hat into the ring as it means more movies will grace the big screen before heading for streaming on Apple TV+.
Other Box Office Happenings
Apart from Argylle, other box office news includes a nationwide release of the faith-based series The Chosen: Season 4, Episode-1-3. This series seems to be making strides, with an estimated tally of $3.3 million over the weekend. Meanwhile, Warner Bros.’ musical Wonka surpasses the $200 million mark, and Paramount’s musical Mean Girls crosses $100 million, showing signs of life for the genre.
Wrapping Up
Despite having a heavyweight cast and a huge production budget, Matthew Vaughn’s high-stakes spy-comedy Argylle, has underperformed at the box office. Even the industry’s titans are not immune to box office disappointments, revealing the unpredictable nature of success in Hollywood. For more news, reviews, guides, and articles, visit HitPlay.
