“Sonic The Hedgehog 2,” Paramount’s sequel to the iconic Sega video game character, grossed an estimated $71 million domestically when it opened this weekend, according to the studio. The number not only exceeded expectations that had seen the film close in on $50 million, but also marks the biggest opening ever for a movie based on a video game.
The sequel, which stars Jim Carrey as Doctor Robotnik, also topped the original, which opened in February 2020 at $58 million.
The Big Weekend is a win for Paramount and theater operators.
As for theaters, this is great news at a crucial time.
The record opening of “Sonic The Hedgehog 2” is also a good sign that consumers are ready to buy tickets for family movies – an important genre that has been somewhat lacking in theaters since the pandemic began.