Even "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace," largely considered one of the most disappointing films in history and easily the worst of the "Star Wars" movies, was a financial hit at the box office. So considering the positive early reviews "The Force Awakens" is generating, coupled with natural excitement for a new "Star Wars" flick, it's no surprise that J.J. Abrams' upcoming film has already made an absurd amount of money.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "The Force Awakens" has set records with $100 million in advance ticket sales, with 50-60 percent of that number expected to go towards the film's opening weekend alone. To understand how mammoth of an amount that is, the previous record was held by "The Dark Knight Rises" with $25 million in pre-sales. Wow.
The film shows no signs of slowing down either, with industry insiders estimating that $120 million in pre-sales is a distinct possibility when all is said and done. This isn't completely unexpected as the opening night of ticket sales caused such an online surge that sites like Fandango actually crashed.
Experts believe "The Force Awakens" could open somewhere between $180 million and $220 million at the box office, both of which would shatter the record for largest domestic December opening ($84 million). Only "Star Wars" could put up summer blockbuster numbers in the heart of winter.
Disney and Lucasfilm reportedly spent $200 million on "The Force Awakens" and that is before you take into account all of the marketing costs. It's amazing to see the film recouping most of that money in advanced ticket sales alone. Who knows what the actual day of numbers could turn out to be, especially with the widespread praise the film is receiving from critics. Here's to hoping that the good times keep rolling.
"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" will finally hit theaters this Friday.
