How did the horror film Primate perform on its opening day?

Primate earned $4.5 million on its opening day, ranking second on the domestic daily charts.

What is the break-even point for the movie Primate?

The film Primate requires approximately $52.2 million to reach its break-even point.

What do critics say about Primate's violence and story?

Critics praise Primate's graphic intensity and the tragic tension derived from the chimpanzee's loss of control.

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Primate Unleashed: Chimp Horror Opens Modestly

11 Jan

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Summary

Primate earned $4.5 million on its opening day.
The horror film needs $52.2 million to break even.
Critics praise Primate's intense attacks and tragic tension.

Primate Unleashed: Chimp Horror Opens Modestly

Paramount's new natural horror film, Primate, opened in U.S. theaters on January 9th, 2026, to a more subdued audience response than anticipated. Despite strong critical approval, the film earned $4.5 million on its first day, trailing behind other recent animal-themed horror releases.

The movie, produced on a $21 million budget, needs approximately $52.2 million to reach profitability. Early weekend estimates predict a total gross between $9 million and $12 million, a figure that will determine if Primate surpasses a quiet opening stretch.

Directed by Johannes Roberts, Primate follows a family whose tropical vacation turns into a nightmare when their pet chimpanzee, Ben, becomes violently aggressive after a rabid animal bite. The film has earned a 78% critic score and a 73% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers highlighting its graphic intensity and tragic undertones.