‘Fall Guy’ debuts with $28.5 million at the box office

“The Fall Guy,” the highly anticipated action-comedy starring Ryan Gosling, opened to a lukewarm reception at the box office this weekend. The Universal Pictures release brought in $28.5 million, falling short of the $30 million to $40 million forecasted expectations.

Directed by David Leitch, the film pays homage to stunt performers who risk their lives for the adrenaline-pumping action sequences that define blockbuster movies. Despite positive reviews and a strong international showing, “The Fall Guy” will need to maintain momentum to justify its $130 million production budget.

Universal’s distribution chief, Jim Orr, remains optimistic about the film’s long-term success, citing its high audience scores and critical acclaim. However, the modest opening for “The Fall Guy” reflects broader concerns within the film industry.

With superhero films no longer dominating the box office, studios are seeking fresh alternatives to attract audiences. While “The Fall Guy” seemed to have all the right ingredients for success, its underwhelming debut underscores the challenges facing Hollywood in reviving the summer movie season.

In a surprising turn of events, the rerelease of “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace” claimed the second spot at the box office, followed by last week’s top film, “Challengers.” The Sony Screen Gems horror film “Tarot” also made its debut, signaling a mixed bag for the industry as it navigates a nontraditional summer movie season.

As the summer unfolds, industry analysts predict a more subdued box office performance compared to previous years, highlighting the evolving landscape of the film industry. Despite the uncertainties, “The Fall Guy” remains poised to carve out its own path in a changing cinematic landscape.