Venom: The Last Dance Tops Weekend Box Office

Sony Pictures' 'Venom: The Last Dance' topped the domestic box office during its opening weekend, earning $51 million, but fell short of expectations that estimated $65 million. Internationally, it garnered $124 million, including a strong showing in China where it became the biggest opening for a Hollywood superhero film since 2019, with $45.9 million over five days. However, the film's performance marks a decline compared to its predecessors; the first 'Venom' opened with $80 million, and the sequel with $90 million. Reviews have been poor, with a 36% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a franchise-low 'B-' CinemaScore. Despite this, the film's production budget was significantly lower than typical superhero films, which may allow it to ultimately turn a profit for Sony. The film's performance reflects broader struggles in the superhero genre, which could see its lowest-grossing year in over a decade.