Martin Scorsese's film "Killers of the Flower Moon" had a solid opening day, bringing in $9.4 million, including Thursday previews, according to Variety. The film is projected to have an opening weekend of $23 million, which would put it behind Taylor Swift's concert film "Eras Tour." While these numbers may seem modest compared to the film's $200 million production budget, it is worth noting that this is Apple's first high-profile theatrical release, as they partnered with Paramount Pictures for distribution. Additionally, "Killers of the Flower Moon" will be a key feature on Apple's streaming service.
The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone, and Robert De Niro and is based on David Grann's non-fiction book about the Osage tribe and the murders committed against them in the 1920s. It debuted in over 3,600 theaters and is being shown in premium format auditoriums.
Critics have praised "Killers of the Flower Moon," with a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film's lengthy runtime of nearly three and a half hours, as well as its mature audience, may pose challenges in terms of box office success. However, the success of Christopher Nolan's similarly lengthy and R-rated film "Oppenheimer" suggests that there is potential for "Killers of the Flower Moon" to find success despite these factors.
Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" film has already grossed $98.7 million domestically after more than a week in theaters. While "Killers of the Flower Moon" is unlikely to surpass these numbers, it still has the potential to perform well commercially and receive critical acclaim. The film's positive ratings and the reputation of director Martin Scorsese could position it as a contender for awards season, including the Oscars.
Overall, "Killers of the Flower Moon" has made a respectable start at the box office and has garnered positive reviews from critics. Its success as Apple's first major theatrical release and its presence on the company's streaming service could contribute to its longevity and overall impact in the film industry.