According to Cineac, the sequel to the adventures of Paul Atreides exploded at the Quebec box office last weekend with receipts of more than 1.86 million.
Published at 1:25 p.m.
Denis Villeneuve's film, which is playing on 216 screens in Quebec, is also dominating the North American box office, with receipts of 81.5 million in its first weekend, compared to 41 million in the first installment, according to the firm Exhibitor Relations.
If you include international markets, the science fiction film, an adaptation of Frank Herbert's novel, has already achieved sales of 178.5 million.
In Quebec, of course, these results have pleased theater owners, who finally have hope of returning to the good days before the pandemic.
“We are all very happy,” says Éric Bouchard, president of the Quebec Cinema Theater Corporation. We had a good 2023, even if Dune 2's release was pushed back from November to March due to the strike [des scénaristes et des acteurs]. We are in the process of restoring some order. »
Since its theatrical release, Denis Villeneuve's new work has received praise and positive reviews around the world, which, according to Éric Bouchard, is a key element for its current performance.
“Everyone recognizes the talent of Denis Villeneuve and when you come across a good film, word of mouth does its job. It's certain that Dune 2 will give our cinemas a boost in 2024. And trailers are the best way to get people interested. »
The release of Dune 1 in the midst of a pandemic – in 2021 – generated revenues of 1.1 million in its first weekend in theaters in Quebec. It was broadcast on 161 screens, an achievement in itself, Mr Bouchard tells us, remembering that restrictions were still in place in cinemas. Overall, the film grossed 5.5 million.
A sum that is likely to be exceeded with the second part of this expected trilogy.