Paramount’s latest musical biopic, “Bob Marley: One Love,” received an enthusiastic response from North American audiences over the weekend, claiming the top spot at the box office with estimated earnings of $27.7 million, as reported by industry watcher Exhibitor Relations on Sunday.
Analyst David A. Gross noted that the film’s opening was outstanding for a musical biography, despite a more critical reception. British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir, known for his portrayal of Malcolm X in “One Night in Miami,” takes on the role of the iconic reggae singer in a story depicting his rapid rise and untimely death. Lashana Lynch plays Rita Marley, and the film’s production involves Ziggy Marley as one of its producers.
Another new release, Sony/Marvel’s superhero thriller “Madame Web,” secured the second spot for the Friday-through-Sunday period with $15.2 million in earnings. Despite an $80 million production cost, the film’s debut was considered disappointing, given its meager 13 percent positive rating on the Rotten Tomatoes website. Dakota Johnson portrays the titular Madame Web, a paramedic with psychic talents, in this fourth installment in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe series.
Dropping to third place from last weekend’s top spot was Universal’s spy thriller “Argylle,” earning $4.7 million. With a budget of $200 million, the film has now amassed a domestic total of $36.4 million, described as “tragic” figures by Variety.
In fourth place, maintaining a steady position in its fifth weekend, was Universal’s family-friendly animation “Migration,” bringing in $3.8 million.
Taking the fifth spot was another installment of Fathom Events’ series on the life of Jesus Christ, titled “The Chosen: S4, EP 4-6,” with earnings of $3.4 million.
Warner Bros.’ musical “Wonka” dropped out of the top five in its 10th week but managed to reach the milestone of $600 million globally.
Rounding out the top 10 were:
“Wonka” ($3.4 million)
“The Beekeeper” ($3.3 million)
“Anyone But You” ($2.4 million)
“Lisa Frankenstein” ($2 million)
“Land of Bad” ($1.8 million)
