Disney has announced that Black Widow ended up grossing a massive estimated haul of $215 million worldwide this weekend. That included $80 million from North America, $78 million from overseas, and over $60 million on Disney+'s Premier Access service (this is the first time the studio has released those figures; they weren't shared for Mulan or Cruella).
As a result of this opening weekend, Black Widow has scored the largest domestic box office opening since the COVID-19 pandemic began and the biggest since Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker was released in December 2019. This was also the highest U.S. opening for a Marvel Cinematic Universe origin story after only Black Panther and Captain Marvel.
"Once again, Marvel has delivered an exceptional film to the delight of fans worldwide with Black Widow achieving numerous milestones in the current marketplace," said Kareem Daniel, Chairman, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution. "Black Widow’s strong performance this weekend affirms our flexible distribution strategy of making franchise films available in theaters for a true cinematic experience and, as COVID concerns continue globally, providing choice to consumers who prefer to watch at home on Disney+."
"It’s incredible to see audiences enjoying Black Widow after two years without a new Marvel Studios film, and this spectacular opening weekend shows just how eager fans have been to see this beloved Avenger in her own story," added Alan Bergman, Chairman, Disney Studios Content. "There’s no question it’s been worth the wait. Cate Shortland, Scarlett Johansson and the Marvel Studios team have delivered an exceptional film that continues a legacy of creative excellence as the Marvel Cinematic Universe expands and enters a new era."
The biggest talking point here is, without a doubt, how well Black Widow performed on Disney+'s Premier Access. As of right now, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Eternals aren't set to receive a dual release in theaters and on the small screen, but it wouldn't be surprising if that changed now. Either way, Premier Access could now be here to stay for the long haul.
Did you guys watch Black Widow in theaters this weekend or did you choose to tune in at home?