Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Soars Towards $230 Million Global Opening, Exceeding Early Projections
Marvel/Disney’s “Fantastic Four Box Office” performance indicates a blockbuster launch, with the Matt Shakman-directed film poised to surpass initial global projections. Through Friday, the superhero epic has already grossed over $106 million worldwide, signaling a robust start.
Marvel Studios and Disney’s latest superhero entry, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, is igniting the global box office, eyeing an impressive opening weekend that could reach up to $230 million worldwide. This strong debut is already outperforming earlier estimates, driven by solid domestic and international performances since its rollout began mid-week.
A Staggering Global Ascent
By the close of Friday, The Fantastic Four: First Steps had amassed an estimated $106.2 million globally. The film is now projected to achieve a full weekend bow of $220 million to $230 million, a clear indication of its powerful market reception. Domestically, the film recorded $57 million through Friday and is on track for a weekend total between $120 million and $125 million.
The international box office has also shown considerable strength, contributing $49.2 million through Friday. Overseas markets are anticipated to collectively deliver $100 million to $105 million by the end of the opening frame, demonstrating significant worldwide appeal for the beloved Marvel property.
International Markets Embrace the Heroes
The international rollout for The Fantastic Four: First Steps commenced on Wednesday, opening across 44 key offshore markets. By Thursday, the film had already secured an estimated $27 million, marking number one opening days across major territories in Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific.
Early comparisons position First Steps favorably against recent superhero predecessors. At current exchange rates and in like-for-like markets, the film is running:
- 57% ahead of Captain America: Brave New World
- 32% over Superman
- 9% above Thunderbolts*
The initial international launch projection had been set at $90 million to $100 million, with industry analysts noting room for considerable upside.
The top five international markets for The Fantastic Four: First Steps through Friday highlight its broad appeal:
- Mexico: $6.2 million
- United Kingdom: $5.7 million
- France: $3.5 million
- Brazil: $2.6 million
- Italy: $2.4 million
Key Markets Drive Momentum
The film, starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Julia Garner, has seen particularly strong performances in several regions:
- Europe: On Wednesday, France registered the third highest opening day of the year for the film, outpacing Thunderbolts* by 84%, Superman by 80% (including previews), and Captain America: Brave New World by 57%. Italy also secured the third best opening day of the year, significantly ahead of Superman (+111%) and Captain America: Brave New World (+81%). The Netherlands saw the second highest opening day of the year, exceeding Superman by 122%.
- Latin America: Thursday openings in Mexico, Brazil, and other Latin American countries all secured the number one spot for the day. Mexico, which currently leads all overseas play, debuted 97% ahead of Brave New World and commanded a 68% market share on Thursday.
- Asia-Pacific: Markets like Indonesia (89% market share), the Philippines (76%), and Hong Kong (53%) showed strong initial market shares and positive social reactions on Wednesday. Korea, opening on Thursday, debuted at number one for the day despite facing local competition, accruing $1.04 million through Friday.
- Australia & Germany: Australia achieved the biggest Marvel opening day of the year on Thursday with a 60% market share, outperforming Thunderbolts* by 57% and Captain America: Brave New World by 45%. Germany’s opening on Thursday was 136% ahead of Superman.
However, some markets are proving more challenging. Friday saw openings in China, Japan, and Spain. China’s box office remains soft for superhero films generally, and Japan is currently dominated by strong local titles. Still, Spain is expected to deliver solid numbers.
Disney’s Milestone Moment
The robust performance of The Fantastic Four: First Steps has also played a pivotal role in a significant milestone for The Walt Disney Studios. With the film’s domestic previews factored in, Disney is set to cross the $3 billion global box office mark in 2025, becoming the first studio to achieve this feat for the year. This achievement underscores Disney’s dominant position in the entertainment landscape.
The strong reception for Matt Shakman’s vision of the Fantastic Four sets a high bar for superhero films in 2025 and solidifies its status as a major player in the global box office arena. A full update is anticipated on Sunday.
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