The latest installment in the beloved Despicable Me franchise, Despicable Me 4, has made a triumphant entry into the box office scene, raking in an estimated $120 million over the five-day Fourth of July weekend. The film, which marks the fourth main installment in the franchise and the sixth overall in the Despicable Me/Minions series, has proven to be a hit with audiences.
Despicable Me 4's opening weekend performance is in line with expectations and sets a strong start for the series. The film continues the adventures of Gru, the reformed supervillain turned Anti-Villain League agent, voiced by Steve Carell. Alongside Gru, familiar characters such as Lucy and the Minions return for more mayhem and mischief.
The movie introduces new characters voiced by top-tier talent, including Will Ferrell, Sofía Vergara, Joey King, Stephen Colbert, and Chloe Fineman. Directed by Chris Renaud and co-written by Mike White and Ken Daurio, Despicable Me 4 promises a blend of humor, action, and heartwarming moments for fans of all ages.
Meanwhile, in the animated film landscape, Pixar and Disney's Inside Out 2 continues to perform well, holding the second position at the box office with a domestic gross of around $535 million. A Quiet Place: Day One from Paramount maintains its position at No. 3, impressively grossing over $94 million in just its second weekend.
On the specialty film front, A24's MaXXXine, a throwback to 1980s sexploitation and horror, makes a solid debut with an estimated $7-8 million opening. The film, directed by Ti West and starring Mia Goth, has garnered positive audience feedback with a B CinemaScore.
As the holiday weekend unfolds, moviegoers can also catch Sony's Bad Boys: Ride or Die, which is expected to surpass $175 million in North American ticket sales. However, Kevin Costner's Horizon: An American Saga struggles to find its footing, facing a decline in its second weekend.
Lastly, Angel Studios, known for its faith-based films, sees a mixed reception with its latest release, Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot. While not reaching the heights of its predecessor, the film is anticipated to achieve a respectable opening in the $8 million range.
Overall, the box office landscape is vibrant with a diverse array of offerings, catering to audiences seeking animated adventures, horror thrills, and heartfelt dramas this holiday season.
