Avengers Endgame Returns for Box Office Crown

In a surprising turn, "Avengers: Endgame" is poised to reclaim box office glory with its "Encore" re-release, targeting $25 million to $28 million this weekend. The 2019 Marvel blockbuster is competing directly with the sophomore weekend of "Resident Evil," which is projected to earn $24 million to $26 million. This weekend's box office also features three significant new entries.

Paramount's survival adventure "The Heart of the Beast," starring Brad Pitt, and A24's "Primetime," featuring Robert Pattinson, are each expected to debut between $17 million and $20 million. Universal and DreamWorks Animation's family film "Forgotten Island" aims for $15 million to $17 million. "Primetime" stands out with a modest $15 million production cost, positioning it for profitability.

"The Heart of the Beast," with an $82 million budget, and "Forgotten Island," at $80 million, will require sustained audience draw beyond opening weekend. "Heart of the Beast" is particularly scrutinized following Paramount's antitrust settlement, with its performance crucial for demonstrating the viability of new film releases. "Forgotten Island" hopes to tap into pent-up family demand after a quiet period for kid-centric movies.

Robert Pattinson's "Primetime" marks another success in a strong year for the actor, following "The Drama" and "The Odyssey." The film, inspired by "To Catch a Predator," received positive reviews at the Venice Film Festival. "Avengers: Endgame" remains one of the highest-grossing films globally, and its re-release success could foreshadow the performance of the upcoming "Avengers: Doomsday."