The Batman won't just be saving Gotham City this month. Variety reports the movie is now eyeing an opening weekend somewhere between $100 million and $125 million, with the latter figure rising from previous $115 million estimates after those glowing reviews landed yesterday.
However, the trade notes that some analysts believe Matt Reeves' DC Comics adaptation will vastly exceed expectations, potentially debuting in North America to a massive $140 million.
It's too soon for overseas estimates, but March looks set to be a good month for The Batman as it's one of only a few Hollywood movies to secure a release in China (where it debuts on March 18). Last night, news broke that the movie won't be released in Russia due to the country's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. For context, Spider-Man: No Way Home - the last blockbuster to open with over $100 million in the U.S. - managed to earn a solid $44 million in the country, so that will hurt The Batman.
The trade also makes note of The Batman's budget, pointing out that it cost $200 million to produce. That figure no doubt rose due to COVID, but it makes this movie a little cheaper than The Dark Knight Rises ($250 million), and more expensive than The Dark Knight ($185 million).
"Delivering the definitive take on the World’s Greatest Detective," we said in our review of the movie, "The Batman is a sweeping, cinematic masterpiece that’s both DC’s best film and one of the most captivating, relentless, and unforgettable comic book movies ever made."
The Batman arrives in theaters this week and premieres in HBO Max 45 days after March 4.
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