Challengers has officially debuted in theaters. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the film brought in $1.9 million from box office previews for MGM and Amazon Studios as it gears up for a nationwide release this Friday. Most of the earnings came from Thursday night showings, with an additional Imax sneak peek earlier in the week.
The movie stars Zendaya as a tennis player entangled in a love triangle alongside actors Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor.
According to THR's David Rooney, Challengers is a smart and seductive film filled with sexual tension that showcases Guadagnino's lighter and more playful side.
Originally planned for a 2021 awards season release, the film was delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike and press restrictions. Zendaya's large social media following is expected to drive audiences to see the movie.
Challengers is projected to earn around $15 million over the weekend, a strong showing for an arthouse film.
Competing in the box office is Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company's film Unsung Hero, which earned $470,000 in Thursday previews and a total of $1.67 million from early screenings.
Based on a true story, Unsung Hero follows David Smallbone and his family as they relocate to the U.S. after his music company fails. The film highlights the musical talents of their seven children, three of whom become successful acts, including KING + COUNTRY and Rebecca St.
James.
Unsung Hero is expected to earn between $5-6 million against its $6 million budget.
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