AMC Theaters achieved a groundbreaking achievement last week by setting a new record for movie ticket sales. The success can be largely attributed to the exceptional performances of two blockbuster films, “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” during their opening weekends.
In a press release on Monday, the world’s largest cinema chain operator announced that it recorded the highest one-week admissions revenue in its 130-year history for the week of July 21 to July 27. Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” stole the show by amassing a remarkable $162 million at the box office on its opening weekend. Not to be outdone, “Oppenheimer” shattered expectations by accumulating an impressive $80.5 million during its debut.
Together, these two films have brought in an astounding $1 billion in global box office revenue within a span of just two weeks. Speaking on the success of the movies, AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aron stated, “These two movies, along with the many others playing on our huge silver screens, continue to rewrite what is possible at the box office.”
AMC did not disclose the specific revenue earned from these films, but the Barbenheimer phenomenon has undoubtedly revitalized the movie theater industry. After a lackluster summer with underperforming films like “The Flash” and the latest “Indiana Jones” installment, the excitement surrounding the dual debut of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” continued well into their second weekend. Moviegoers, particularly Barbie fans clad in pink, flooded theaters to catch these highly anticipated films.
During the second weekend, “Barbie” remained number one with $93 million in ticket sales, followed by “Oppenheimer” with an estimated $46.2 million. Despite their contrasting themes, the fervor for each film has mutually benefitted the other. Some dedicated moviegoers have even chosen to watch both films on the same day, contributing to the continuous success of the movies.
“Barbie,” starring Margot Robbie as the iconic doll herself and Ryan Gosling as Ken, takes audiences on a thrilling adventure into the real world. On the other hand, “Oppenheimer,” directed by Christopher Nolan and featuring Cillian Murphy, delves into the historical tale of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer and the creation of the atomic bomb.
According to the National Association of Theatre Owners, more than 200,000 people purchased tickets to watch both films on the same day, highlighting the overwhelming enthusiasm. In terms of box office performance, “Barbie” has generated over $351 million in the US and Canada since opening day, while its global earnings amount to nearly $775 million, as reported by Comscore. Universal’s “Oppenheimer” has earned $174 million domestically, $400 million worldwide.
These films have captivated American moviegoers during a period of turmoil and uncertainty for the entertainment industry. The ongoing strikes by the Writers’ Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA have caused disruptions in film production and restricted actors’ ability to promote their work. Despite these challenges, the recent box office success of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” has demonstrated the resilience and passion of movie lovers.
Last weekend marked one of AMC Theaters’ busiest weekends globally since the reopening of theaters post-pandemic in 2020. Admissions revenue more than doubled compared to the same weekend last year, although specific figures were not disclosed. Alongside “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” the opening of “Haunted Mansion,” the continued success of Tom Cruise’s latest “Mission Impossible” film, and the unexpected hit “Sound of Freedom” contributed to the surge in ticket sales.
Expressing gratitude to the entertainment industry, AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aron said, “Our appreciation extends to so many of our friends in Hollywood for releasing all the many hit movies that have graced our theaters, especially over the past few months.” AMC further revealed that 65 of its individual US theaters, including 13 in Los Angeles and nine in New York City, experienced their highest-ever box office week during the aforementioned period, solidifying the success and impact of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.”
The incredible achievements of AMC Theaters and the staggering popularity of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” not only signify a resurgence in the movie theater industry but also demonstrate the enduring allure of cinema for audiences worldwide.