Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning and Lilo & Stitch Set to Dominate Memorial Day Weekend Box Office

As we approach Memorial Day weekend, the excitement builds around two highly anticipated films: Paramount’s 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning' starring Tom Cruise and Disney’s live-action remake of 'Lilo & Stitch.' According to initial tracking data from The Hollywood Reporter, 'The Final Reckoning' is projected to earn between $72 million to $88 million during its opening weekend, with a hopeful target of $80 million. This figure would not only represent a franchise best but also surpass the $61.2 million opening of 'Mission: Impossible - Fallout' in 2018. Meanwhile, 'Lilo & Stitch' is expected to perform even better, projecting an opening in the range of $110 million to $130 million, potentially becoming one of Disney's most successful live-action adaptations. This exciting box office showdown is reminiscent of the 'Barbenheimer' phenomenon witnessed earlier in 2023, where contrasting audiences flocked to theaters to see both 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer.' Industry experts anticipate that a combination of these two films could lead to record-breaking ticket sales, aiming for the biggest Memorial Day weekend in history. Reflecting on previous records from Memorial Day weekends, the current top slate dates back to 2013, which saw 'Fast & Furious 6' and 'The Hangover Part III' combined for a massive total of $306 million. If predictions hold, this year’s combined gross would eclipse that figure, particularly buoyed by Tom Cruise’s historical success during this holiday, where his films have often dominated the box office. Paramount has also ramped up promotional efforts, launching interactive games and merchandise leading up to the film's release, which adds to the buzz around 'The Final Reckoning.' With this wave of marketing and the strong legacy of both franchises, viewers can expect a weekend filled with thrills, laughter, and record-breaking box office numbers. In summary, both films, while targeting different demographics, are set up for success, which could herald a resurgence for the box office following a relatively sluggish start to the year for Hollywood. It will indeed be interesting to witness how audiences respond to both films once they open on May 23.