‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Disappoints With $40 Million At Box Office In Second Weekend
Topline
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” grossed an estimated $40 million at the domestic box office over its second weekend in theaters, according to early estimates—falling below expectations and marking a steep decline after debuting at $117.6 million a week earlier.
The Marvel film saw a 66% drop for its second weekend after opening with $117.6 million.
Variety via Getty Images
Key Facts
The new Fantastic Four adaptation starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bacharach and Joseph Quinn remained at the top of the box office charts over its second weekend after becoming Marvel Studios’ biggest opening this year.
However, box office sales dropped 66% compared to its opening weekend—largely in line with other second weekend declines from Marvel Studios films this year, including “Captain America: Brave New World” (68% drop after opening at $88 million) and “Thunderbolts*” (55% drop after opening at $74 million).
Despite positive reviews and a 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoesthe Marvel film’s second weekend lagged behind projections from Box Office Pro, which estimated the film would gross $45 million-$50 million over its second weekend.
What Else Debuted This Weekend?
Two new comedies debuting over the weekend competed for the second spot, although neither came close to surpassing Marvel’s blockbuster. “The Bad Guys 2,” DreamWorks’ new animated heist comedy with an ensemble cast, won the number two spot after opening at $22.8 million. The new reboot of “The Naked Gun” starring Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson debuted at number three, grossing about $17 million after largely positive reviews and audience scores. Two holdover blockbusters rounded out the top five for the weekend: “Superman” remained in theaters, grossing another $13 million over the weekend for fourth place, while “Jurassic World Rebirth” continued its run with $8.4 million for fifth.
Key Background
Last weekend’s opening for “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” notched a big win for Disney-owned Marvel Studios, whose major releases this year have opened behind their blockbusters of the past as critics warn that audiences are developing “superhero fatigue.” However, DC Studios still holds the top spot for strongest superhero opening of 2025 so far after “Superman” debuted at $125 million earlier in July.
