Disney's 'Tron: Ares' Fizzles at the Box Office, While 'Roofman' Sneaks Into Second Place—But Is This the End for the Grid?
The highly anticipated sci-fi sequel Tron: Ares has landed at the top of the box office, but its glow is far dimmer than Disney had hoped. With a Friday and preview haul of $14.3 million across 4,000 locations—including early access screenings—the film is falling short of its projected $45 million debut. And this is the part most people miss: It’s even trailing behind its 2010 predecessor, Tron: Legacy, which opened with $17.5 million on its way to a $44 million weekend. Despite a “B+” Cinema Score from audiences, mediocre reviews aren’t helping this $180 million revival of the cult-favorite franchise. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Tron ever truly break out of its niche appeal? While the original 1982 film was a modest hit, Legacy grossed $400 million globally—yet Ares is banking on international audiences to turn a profit. With Jared Leto stepping into the grid alongside returning star Jeff Bridges, and a Nine Inch Nails score replacing Daft Punk’s iconic Legacy soundtrack, is this enough to reignite the spark? Or is Tron destined to remain a retro curiosity?
Meanwhile, Channing Tatum’s Roofman is holding its own in second place, though it’s also underperforming. The comedic thriller earned $3.25 million across 3,362 locations, aiming for an $8 million weekend. Developed by Miramax on a lean $19 million budget, the film has earned solid critical buzz and a “B+” Cinema Score. Directed by Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine), Roofman stars Tatum as a charming criminal with a peculiar hideout—a Toys “R” Us store. With a star-studded ensemble including Kirsten Dunst and Peter Dinklage, could this quirky caper surprise everyone with strong word-of-mouth?
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Roofman’s modest debut a sign of audience fatigue with Tatum’s on-screen antics, or is it simply a victim of a crowded release schedule? Let us know in the comments!
Elsewhere, Sony’s faith-based drama Soul on Fire is targeting a fifth-place finish with $1.3 million across 1,720 locations, aiming for a $3 million weekend. The film, directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer), has earned an “A” Cinema Score from its target audience, proving that niche marketing can still pay off.
On the flip side, Kiss of the Spider Woman is struggling to find its footing. The R-rated musical adaptation, starring Jennifer Lopez, earned just $343,000 across 1,330 locations, making a top 10 debut unlikely. With a $30 million budget and a late acquisition by Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate, this Sundance darling is facing a tough road to profitability. Is this a missed opportunity, or was the film always too niche for mainstream success?
In other news, Warner Bros.’ One Battle After Another continues its awards season push, earning $2 million on its third Friday—a 41% drop from last week. Despite losing premium screens to Tron: Ares, the film is holding steady, though its $49.8 million domestic total raises questions about its theatrical profitability. Could it still emerge as an Oscar contender?
Rounding out the top performers, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie remains in fourth place with $920,000 on Friday, while The Conjuring: Last Rites continues its strong run with $900,000, bringing its domestic total to $170.4 million. However, The Smashing Machine, A24’s $50 million Dwayne Johnson drama, is fading fast, plummeting 72% from last week with just $530,000 on Friday. Is this a cautionary tale about high-budget risks, or simply a misstep in marketing?
As the box office landscape shifts, one thing is clear: Audiences are unpredictable. From Tron’s dim glow to Roofman’s sneaky rise, this weekend proves that even the most calculated releases can surprise—or disappoint. What’s your take? Are these films worth the hype, or is Hollywood missing the mark? Let us know in the comments!
