Deadpool & Wolverine made a historic splash at the box office, shattering records left and right. With a mind-boggling $211 million domestic opening weekend, it claimed the title of the biggest R-rated movie debut ever.
Globally, the film raked in a staggering $444.1 million, solidifying its position as the highest-grossing R-rated film worldwide. The film’s opening weekend gross was the sixth-highest of all time for any film, behind only blockbusters like Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Star Wars sequels.
Demographic Breakdown
The audience for Deadpool & Wolverine demonstrated a broader demographic compared to its predecessors. Notably, the film performed exceptionally well across all age groups, surprisingly attracting a significant number of moviegoers under 17 despite its R-rating.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, while the audience was predominantly male (63%), it also showcased a diverse racial makeup. Specifically, 43% of the audience identified as white, followed by 30% as Latino, 13% as Black, 9% as Asian, and 5% as Native American or other.
What do critics say?
The box office numbers are undeniably impressive, but critical reception was more mixed. Some lauded the film as a refreshing departure from the typical Marvel formula, injecting much-needed humour and violence. Others found it creatively underwhelming, relying too heavily on familiar tropes. Critics loved the fan appeal but noted mixed quality. The film’s success boosts Marvel and the overall industry.
Critics have showered it with praise, awarding it an “A” CinemaScore and a “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Many hailed it as a revitalizing force for the MCU, offering a refreshing departure from the franchise’s formulaic approach.
While the film has garnered widespread acclaim, some critics argue that its heavy reliance on cameos and connections to the broader Marvel universe overshadows deeper storytelling. Nevertheless, many reviewers acknowledge the film’s emotional depth, exploring poignant themes within the complex multiverse narrative.
Deadpool & Wolverine undoubtedly delivered a massive opening weekend, setting new benchmarks for R-rated films and providing a much-needed boost to the movie industry.
What are your thoughts on Deadpool & Wolverine’s record-breaking opening? Did you see the movie? Share your opinions in the comments below!