The recent release of Ryan Coogler’s horror film Sinners has sparked a debate in Hollywood, not over its content, but its box office performance. Despite earning $61 million globally in its opening weekend, Variety’s report suggesting “profitability remains a ways away” due to the film’s $90 million budget and marketing costs has drawn criticism from industry figures.
Actor Ben Stiller questioned the narrative, tweeting, “In what universe does a $60 million opening for an original studio movie warrant this headline?” Patrick Schwarzenegger echoed this sentiment, noting, “It’s opening weekend…”
Filmmaker Joe Russo sarcastically commented on the expectations, while Franklin Leonard highlighted perceived double standards in media coverage, comparing it to the reception of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
The discourse underscores a broader conversation about media narratives and their impact on films led by Black creatives. Sinners, starring Michael B. Jordan and Hailee Steinfeld, has not only topped the box office but also ignited discussions on representation and equity in Hollywood.
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