'Predator: Badlands' conquers North American box office

“Predator: Badlands,” the newest entry in the long-running science fiction horror franchise that first began nearly four decades ago, dominated the North American box office over the weekend. According to industry estimates released on Sunday, the film opened with an impressive $40 million, securing the top spot and reaffirming the enduring appeal of the Predator series.

Produced by 20th Century Studios, this ninth installment introduces a fresh twist to the familiar predator mythology. Instead of portraying the alien hunter as the antagonist, the film centers on a young outcast Predator played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. The character embarks on a journey of honor and identity, forming an unlikely alliance with an android portrayed by Elle Fanning. Their story follows a quest for recognition and redemption, marking a noticeable shift in tone from earlier films that largely emphasized survival and combat. The franchise originally launched in 1987 with Arnold Schwarzenegger leading the cast, and has since evolved through sequels, crossovers, and reimaginings, making “Badlands” a notable new direction.

Taking second place at the box office was “Regretting You,” the latest cinematic adaptation of a Colleen Hoover novel, which earned $7.1 million from Friday through Sunday, according to Exhibitor Relations. Directed by Josh Boone, the drama explores the emotional complexities between a mother, played by Allison Williams, and her teenage daughter, portrayed by McKenna Grace, as they navigate grief, personal growth, and shifting relationships following a sudden tragedy.

In third place was Universal’s thriller sequel “Black Phone 2,” bringing in $5.3 million. The film features Ethan Hawke returning to his unsettling role as a sinister antagonist, continuing the chilling themes of the first installment.

Debuting in fourth position, “Sarah’s Oil” from MGM earned $4.5 million. Inspired by historical events, the story follows a young African American girl in early 20th-century Oklahoma who believes the land she inherits contains valuable oil deposits, setting the stage for both opportunity and conflict.

Meanwhile, Sony’s “Nuremberg” opened in fifth place with $4.1 million. The film revisits the post-World War II trials, with attention on Hermann Goering, played by Russell Crowe, whose performance has already begun generating awards-season discussion.

Other films in the top ten include:

“Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc” ($3.6 million)

“Bugonia” ($3.5 million)

“Die My Love” ($2.8 million)

“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” ($2.2 million)

“Tron: Ares” ($1.8 million)