Summary
The prospects of The Marvels reaching $1 billion at the box office might be hampered due to the limited availability of IMAX screenings, especially considering Dune: Part Two's extensive IMAX run currently scheduled.The lackluster performance of certain recent Hollywood blockbusters casts doubt on the potential box office triumph of The Marvels in an increasingly competitive autumn season.
While reaching a billion dollars would be a significant milestone, The Marvels does not necessarily need to achieve that number to be considered successful. Previous Marvel films have achieved commercial success without reaching that benchmark. The film's unique marketing and status as one of Marvel Studios' few female-led superhero movies may help it stand out.
However, the possibility of The Marvels reaching a billion dollars, like Captain Marvel, may face challenges due to an IMAX problem. As we approach the end of MCU Phase 5 in 2023, Marvel Studios only has a few projects left to release on Disney+ and in theaters. The Marvels will wrap up 2023, with Brie Larson returning as Carol Danvers, along with Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau and Iman Vallani as Kamala Khan. Fans are eagerly anticipating this Captain Marvel sequel, where these three heroes team up.
The possibility of The Marvels reaching a box office record of $1 billion, similar to Captain Marvel, is uncertain due to the absence of IMAX screenings. According to a recent report from Variety, during an IMAX earnings call, Richard Gelfond, the CEO, mentioned that Dune: Part Two will have an extensive run in IMAX, which would limit The Marvels' access. However, Gelfond emphasized that if Dune: Part Two changes its release date, The Marvels will take its place in the IMAX lineup. He stated:
Yes, specifically referring to Dune, there is another highly anticipated film called The Marvels from Marvel, and unfortunately, we cannot screen it because we have already committed to Dune. However, if Dune's release date is altered, The Marvels will take its spot in IMAX, and having a Marvel movie as a backup is not a disadvantage.
Will The Marvels Be Able To Be Captain Marvel's Box Office Success?
Regardless of whether or not The Marvels secures IMAX screenings, there is still the question of whether the Captain Marvel sequel can achieve the same level of box office success. The year 2023 has revealed that the theatrical industry is currently in a state of uncertainty, with several major Hollywood films failing to meet expectations. If this trend continues into the fall movie season, The Marvels may encounter similar difficulties, potentially preventing it from earning $1 billion.
It is important to note that when Captain Marvel was released, it fell between the highly anticipated Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, during the culmination of the MCU's Infinity Saga. Despite this timing advantage, Marvel Studios has produced several films that have been successful without reaching the billion-dollar milestone. For instance, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, which earned $844 million, was considered a commercial triumph. Therefore, The Marvels does not necessarily need to achieve the billion-dollar mark to be deemed a success.
The Marvels trailers and marketing alone indicate that this upcoming MCU film will offer a unique experience, potentially attracting audiences to theaters upon its release. As one of Marvel Studios' few female-led superhero movies, The Marvels will undoubtedly distinguish itself from other MCU projects. However, it remains uncertain whether The Marvels will achieve remarkable box office success once again.