Resident Evil Shatters Franchise Records as Practical Magic 2 Slips
The new Resident Evil reboot has opened at No. 1 at the North American box office, earning an estimated $55 million and setting a new franchise record. Directed by Zach Cregger and starring Austin Abrams, the film is also receiving unusually strong early reviews, with a 96% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes as reported by Collider.
That success came as Sandra Bullock’s Practical Magic 2 moved into second place. The sequel earned $3.3 million on its second Friday, a 75% drop from the previous Friday. Its decline was compounded by the arrival of Resident Evil, which took over premium large-format screens and pulled moviegoers toward the newest major release. Deadline previously reported a $30 million domestic opening for the sequel.
For audiences, the weekend offers a clear snapshot of how quickly theater attention can shift. Strong reviews, a recognizable game-based franchise and premium-screen access helped Resident Evil stand out, while Practical Magic 2 now faces fewer high-end showtimes. Check local listings before planning a movie night, especially if you prefer IMAX, Dolby Cinema or other premium formats.
The entertainment conversation also moved to Philadelphia, where Ed Sheeran performed his first concert since the Macklemore controversy affected his tour. Sheeran acknowledged making mistakes, said he had considered quitting as an artist and described the United States as a “scary place,” according to USA Today.
For our neighbors, the takeaway is simple: the fall entertainment calendar is changing quickly. Which release, or live performance, has your attention this weekend? Share your pick with the community, and explore more culture and lifestyle coverage through Brownstone Living Magazine.
