The financial performance of Lionsgate’s latest film, “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera,” can be viewed as both a success and a cautionary tale. The sequel kicked off with an impressive $1.35 million from showings that began at 6 PM, surpassing the $950,000 garnered by its predecessor during similar preview screenings. This 42% increase hints at a growing interest in the series, especially considering the film’s release in a relatively quiet early January slot. However, when held against the bar set by other recent releases in the genre, “Den of Thieves 2” appears to be on a rocky path.
For instance, “The Beekeeper” managed to capture $2.4 million during its preview night, while Gerard Butler’s “Plane” opened at $625,000 and ultimately achieved notable success over the course of its release. With projections for “Den of Thieves 2” suggesting an opening weekend haul between $11 million and $13 million from over 3,000 screens, it becomes clear that audience appetite is still in play, albeit measured. The market’s lush vibrancy of January is relatively muted this year, compounding concerns over the film’s longevity.
It is essential to take into account external circumstances that might dampen audience turnout, particularly in areas like Los Angeles where wildfires have forced the closure of multiple cinemas. Only two out of fourteen venues have reopened, and even among the open theaters, the level of foot traffic is expected to be subdued. The future trajectory of “Den of Thieves 2” may be significantly influenced by these unforeseen events, weakening its chance to outperform potential competitors like “Mufasa” or “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” both of which are aligning closely in release schedules.
The film’s lineage adds an interesting layer to its prospects. The original “Den of Thieves” not only exceeded its initial box office expectations in 2018 but also amassed an impressive $44.9 million domestically and $80.5 million worldwide. Such figures establish a high benchmark for the sequel. With Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr. reprising their roles alongside returning director Christian Gudegast, one wonders if nostalgia alone can carry the sequel to similar heights.
Despite variability on the revenue front, critical engagement has been more positive, with the sequel holding a 70% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This metric is likely to enhance word-of-mouth recommendations, which could counteract some of the initial box office trepidation as the weekend progresses. The film sees Butler’s character leading a new pursuit across Europe filled with diamond heists and mafia intrigue, elements that attract a certain demographic of action film aficionados.
In summation, “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” has a mixed bag of prospects ahead. Its opening numbers appear robust when compared to the original, yet there are wrinkles—both internal and external—that could impede its growth. This sequel will have to navigate challenges from competing films and external environmental factors while simultaneously capitalizing on its legacy to secure a solid box office performance. If it can resonate well with both audiences and critics, there may still be a bright horizon for this tangible piece of cinematic entertainment.