Even before the pandemic, Warner Bros./Legendary’s “Dune” was shaping up to be one of the biggest cinematic gambles of the year. And based on the opening weekend numbers, it wouldn’t look like this gamble resulted in a jackpot for the Burbank studio or its China-based production partner.
“Dune” posted a $40 million domestic opening — a fraction of the film’s $165 million production budget. But there is good news for the studio: It was the best debut this year for Warner Bros. as well as the best career opening for director Denis Villeneuve (topping his previous best of $32.7
Why ‘Dune’ Sequels Could Still Happen Even Without Blockbuster Box Office
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With the rise of streamers, ticket sales become less of a factor for many films Hollywood wants to turn into long-lasting IP
