The movie adaptation of the video game Warcraft continues its success adding at least $44.5 million to its box-office record in the United States. On Wednesday, June 8, Warcraft made its official debut in China and smashed the box-office with total earnings of $46 million on its first day, setting the best opening day for a movie released on a weekday.
The recent record made by Warcraft marks the biggest release of all time for a movie released on a Thursday, beating the previous record holder The Mermaid. Warcraft distributor Legendary claims that the films is by far the fastest to cross the $90 million mark.
Prior to its official release in China, analysts predicted that the film would earn between $120 million and $150 million in its five-day debut. With the latest statistics released, many analysts agree that those estimates are relatively low.
While many are expecting Warcraft to be a massive hit in China, the same cannot be said in the US market. Some forecasts claim that the film's launch could earn it around $22 million to $24 million, a massive gap from its budget of $160 million. However, many analysts agree that despite its slow pace in North America, the film could easily regain momentum in the foreign box office.
After rolling out in 28 international markets, Warcraft has already amassed $75 million. In Russia, the film earned $17.3 million. It earned $10 million in Germany. The film earned $7.8 million in France, and in the United Kingdom, it earned $5.5 million.
Warcraft is slated to be released in 37 more countries. Universal is managing the distribution of the movie to all international markets, expect China where it is being handled by Legendary. Warcraft is Legendary's first ever project in China since the company was bought by Wanda earlier this year.
Warcraft has several investors, which reduces the risk of serious financial trouble should the movie turn out to be a flop. Aside from Legendary, Wanda, and Universal, several Chinese companies have also supported the film. These companies include China Film Group, Huayi Brothers Media Group, Beijing Taihe Entertainment Co., and Tencent Pictures.
