Every industry has its lulls over the year, and January is typically one for film. And depending on the genre a new movie release can struggle even further. But don’t mention that to M3GAN, the new creepy thriller – that’s been likened to Chucky. It opened in the US to great success this past weekend.
Only pipped to the top spot by James Cameroon’s mega-blockbuster Avatar: The Way of Water, the US theatrical release managed to rake in $30.2 million USD. With international revenues achieving $14.8 so far, that put M3GAN’s tally to $45 million reports Variety. It has yet to open in countries including the UK – opening this Friday, 13th January, quite fittingly.
AI brings a doll to life…
M3GAN – which stands for Model 3 Generative Android – features Amie McDonald and Jenna Davis (voice) in the titular role. They’re supported by Allison Williams (Gemma) and Ronny Chieng (David). A PG-13 film, M3GAN is a life-like doll built by a robotics engineer at a toy company to be a perfect AI companion. But M3GAN soon begins to evolve and take on a life of her own.
Costing a mere $12 million to make, part of M3GAN’s success has been thanks to viral marketing, exuding the creepy vibe whilst highlighting an excellent dance sequence. Regarding the online response, Jim Orr, Universal’s president of domestic distribution is quoted as saying: “Blumhouse and James Wan’s Atomic Monster delivered an incredible film”. It’s fun, it’s scary, it’s thrilling. Word-of-mouth is through the roof.”
This makes for an exciting start to 2023, cinema has had a rough ride over the past few years. Blockbusters like Avatar and Top Gun: Maverick have certainly helped the industry but 2022 was still down 30% on 2019. Upcoming movies including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 and Mission: Impossible 7 may help the fortunes of cinemas worldwide.
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