Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy exceeded the studio’s expectations in box office performance this past weekend and has the momentum to become a popular franchise.

April 6, 2018

2 Min Read

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy exceeded the studio’s expectations in box office performance this past weekend and now has the momentum that could help it to become the popular new franchise it envisioned when it committed to the space adventure film that was popularized in comic books more than 30 years ago.

Last week, Disney Consumer Products unveiled an extensive collection of products from 12 licensees including Hasbro, LEGO, Disguise, Her Universe, Café Press, Mad Engine, Just Play, KidDesigns, Hot Wheels, Rubie's, C-Life and Jay Franco. (See story here.)

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy introduces exciting characters and vehicles unlike anything seen in previous Marvel films. These elements were embraced by partners who immediately saw the potential to create out-of-this-world products that appeal to fans of all ages,” says Paul Gitter, senior vice president, Marvel Licensing.

According to Box Office Mojo, Guardians of the Galaxy recorded $94.3 million in the U.S. on its opening weekend, making it the largest opening ever for any film in August. The film has now grossed $160 million worldwide. The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) previously held the No. 1 spot as the largest grossing weekend in August with $69.1 million. 

Guardians is also the third largest opening of 2014 ranking behind Transformers: Age of Extinction in June ($100 million) and Captain America: The Winter Soldier in April ($95 million), but topping Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World ($85.7 million) last November.

According to sources, Marvel was anticipating an opening around $60 to $65 million so this box office performance bodes well for the future of the franchise.

A sequel to Guardians is already set for release in 2017, which was announced by Marvel Studios at Comic-Con last month. The studio’s next films, both in 2015, are The Avengers: Age of Ultron (May 1) and Ant-Man (July 17).

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