28 Years Later: The Bone Temple opened to $31.1 million worldwide, falling short of its domestic projection and trailing the holiday frame’s top holdovers.
At a Glance
- The zombie three-quel pulled $15 million in North America vs. a $20-22 million forecast.
- International markets added $16.2 million from 61 territories.
- Critics and audiences have praised the film, which could extend its run.
- Why it matters: A softer start raises questions about franchise momentum just as Sony green-lights a third installment.
Sony’s horror follow-up arrived four weeks after its predecessor and immediately faced stiff competition from Primate, No Other Choice, and Disney’s Avatar: Fire and Ash, according to figures reported by News Of Austin.
Domestic Disappointment
The film’s $15 million U.S. debut landed 25 percent below the studio’s prerelease range. Hopes had been pinned on holiday traffic, yet turnout remained modest across 3,100 theaters.
Key factors cited:
- Crowded marketplace with three wide releases
- Short gap between franchise chapters
- Mixed preview buzz despite upbeat reviews
Overseas Relief
International receipts offered brighter news. Highlights include:
- $16.2 million total outside North America
- Strong starts in the U.K., France, and Australia
- No major markets left to open
The overseas showing kept global weekend receipts at $31.1 million, giving exhibitors a lifelight as domestic sales cooled.
Critical Boost
Review sentiment could still drive legs. Current scores:
- 82 percent on Rotten Tomatoes
- B+ CinemaScore from ticket buyers
- Positive chatter on social platforms
Word of mouth helped the first 28 Years Later leg out to $180 million worldwide, a path Bone Temple may need to replicate.
Franchise Future
Sony confirmed a third 28 Years Later is already in development. Cillian Murphy, star of the original 28 Days Later, will reprise his role. Production is slated for late 2025 with a targeted 2027 release.
Competitive Field
The weekend’s other performers chipped away at available screens:
- Avatar: Fire and Ash added an estimated $17.2 million domestic for a $363.5 million cume and $1.31 billion global
- Zootopia 2 became Hollywood’s highest-grossing animated feature ever, per News Of Austin
- Primate and No Other Choice combined for roughly $24 million
Week Ahead
Exhibitors will watch weekday holds and next Friday’s drop to gauge whether Bone Temple can rebound. March brings fewer horror options, and the film’s $45 million production budget leaves room for profit if international momentum continues.
Key Takeaways
- $31.1 million worldwide start trails targets but is not fatal
- International $16.2 million softens domestic miss
- Positive reviews and CinemaScore may lengthen run
- A third film is guaranteed, keeping long-term franchise value intact
Check local listings for showtimes.
