Universal and Illumination’s “Despicable Me 4” has taken the July 4th holiday box office by storm, grossing an impressive $122.6 million over the extended five-day weekend. This strong performance reaffirms the enduring popularity of the franchise, which continues to attract audiences of all ages.
The film, featuring the return of beloved characters Gru (voiced by Steve Carell), Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and the mischievous Minions, was highly anticipated and did not disappoint.
Box Office Success
“Despicable Me 4” opened with a solid $28 million on its first day, setting the stage for its significant five-day haul. Despite receiving mixed critical reviews, the film boasts a high audience score, reflecting its appeal among viewers.
The movie’s success underscores the strength of the “Despicable Me” franchise, which has become a staple of family entertainment.
New Characters and Plot
Directed by Chris Renaud and Patrick Delage, the latest installment introduces new dynamics within Gru’s family, including a new character, Gru Jr., who brings additional chaos to the storyline.
Gru also faces a new nemesis, Maxime Le Mal, portrayed by Will Ferrell, and his partner Valentina, played by Sofia Vergara.
The film’s plot takes the family on a thrilling adventure, contributing to its broad international appeal and substantial box office returns from 52 markets worldwide.
‘MaXXXine’ Opens to $6.7 Million
In contrast, A24’s “MaXXXine,” the final film in Ti West’s horror trilogy, opened to $6.7 million. The movie, starring Mia Goth, continues the story of the adult film star Maxine Minx.
Despite its modest opening compared to “Despicable Me 4,” “MaXXXine” has carved out a niche audience with its unique blend of horror and drama, maintaining the cult following established by its predecessors.
The contrasting performances of these two films highlight the diversity of audience preferences during the holiday weekend, with “Despicable Me 4” appealing to families and “MaXXXine” attracting horror enthusiasts.