“Melania,” “Send Help” Set to Impress with Box Office Projections
As the film industry looks for a boost, two major releases, “Melania” and “Send Help,” are stepping into the spotlight this January. Both films are generating buzz, especially in light of their box office projections.
“Send Help” Box Office Projections
Directed by Sam Raimi, “Send Help” is a survival thriller that aims to dominate the box office with projected earnings of $14 million to $17 million from approximately 3,475 theaters. Set against a backdrop of recent low turnout due to weather conditions, this R-rated film offers promising word-of-mouth and excitement for original horror.
- Release date: Late January 2023
- Production cost: $40 million
- Projected international earnings: $10 million to $12 million
The film stars Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien as they navigate peril after a plane crash. Critics are highlighting its unpredictability, building expectations for a successful run beyond initial screening weekends.
Competition on the Charts
Upon its debut, “Send Help” will face competition from several new films, including:
- “Iron Lung”: A sci-fi thriller with projections of $10 million, directed by YouTube star Markiplier.
- “Shelter”: An action-adventure film with expected earnings between $5 million to $7 million.
- “Melania”: A documentary with anticipated earnings of $3 million to $5 million.
Overview of “Melania”
“Melania,” focusing on the First Lady Melania Trump during a politically charged time, is set for a theatrical release in 1,500 locations. This documentary comes with a hefty production budget of $40 million, plus an additional $35 million in marketing costs. Directed by Brett Ratner, it marks his return to filmmaking after facing serious allegations in 2017.
- Premiere location: Trump-Kennedy Center in D.C.
- Notable attendees: Political figures and supporters, including Donald Trump.
Despite its significant budget, projections suggest that “Melania” may not achieve blockbuster status, as a seven-figure opening for a documentary usually raises eyebrows.
Challenges and Opportunities
The current landscape for theatrical releases is challenging, with overall box office revenues lagging behind pre-pandemic levels. Last year, total earnings fell short of the $9 billion mark. Independent platforms are becoming essential as traditional studios reduce their output, opening doors for new distributors.
The industry eagerly anticipates what 2026 may bring, as “Send Help” and “Melania” attempt to capture audience interest and revitalize box office performance.
