James Cameron’s Film Ignites $12M in U.S. Preview Sales
James Cameron’s much-anticipated film, Avatar: Fire and Ash, has ignited strong interest at the North American box office, raking in $12 million during its Thursday previews. The film is set to complete its global rollout, showcasing the spectacular Na’vi world as 2023 comes to a close.
Global Box Office Performance
Overseas, Avatar: Fire and Ash has already made $60 million, with an impressive $17 million earned on its opening day in China. Early audience reactions are positive, despite the film’s lengthy runtime of over three hours.
Domestic Opening Projections
Analysts predict that the film will open domestically in the range of $95 million to $105 million. In comparison, its predecessor, Avatar: The Way of Water, garnered $134 million in its opening. However, it had nine full days before Christmas, while Fire and Ash will have just six days. It’s expected some viewers may opt to watch it during the holiday itself.
A Look Back at Avatar’s Success
The original Avatar premiered in 2009, earning $77 million in its opening weekend, a figure that initially drew criticism. However, it soon gained traction, eventually becoming the highest-grossing film of all time with $2.97 billion worldwide, when not adjusted for inflation. It remains the top title, followed by Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame, and Cameron’s own works, Way of Water and Titanic.
Competition During the Holiday Season
Avatar: Fire and Ash faces competition from other films debuting in the holiday season. The upcoming release schedule includes:
- The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants (Paramount) – $1.4 million in previews
- The Housemaid (Lionsgate) – projected opening between $20 million to $25 million after earning $2.2 million in previews
- David (Angel Studios) – tracking in the $20 million to $25 million range
- Anaconda reboot (Sony) – exact performance uncertain
Additionally, several Oscar contenders will also open nationwide on Christmas Day, including Marty Supreme featuring Timothée Chalamet and Song Sung Blue starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson.
