'Barbie' hits $1 billion, 'TMNT,' 'Meg 2' and 'Oppenheimer' compete at box office

The box office is seeing strong competition as 'Barbie' crosses the $1 billion mark globally, while 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,' 'Meg 2,' and 'Oppenheimer' contend closely.

Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' is set to earn around $54 million in its third weekend, reaching $460.4 million in North America and surpassing $1 billion worldwide. This achievement, anticipated within the next day, makes it the first solo-directed live-action film by a woman to join the billion-dollar club. The movie also holds the title of the highest-grossing live-action film domestically for a female director, surpassing 'Wonder Woman' and 'Captain Marvel.'

Maintaining its top spot for the weekend, 'Barbie' faces competition for second place. Early estimates suggest 'Oppenheimer,' 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,' and 'Meg 2: The Trench' are closely contending, each projected to earn around $29 million, according to rival studios.


Paramount predicts a slightly higher $30 million for the 'TMNT' reboot, which gained $9.3 million on Friday. With positive reviews and A CinemaScore, the family-friendly film, written by Seth Rogen, could reach a five-day total of approximately $45 million.

Warner Bros. 'Meg 2,' released on Friday, follows up on the 2018 hit 'The Meg,' opening with $12 million on Friday, including $3.2 million from Thursday previews. The sequel, with a B- CinemaScore, is maintaining the horror theme.

Meanwhile, Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer' continues its strong performance, surpassing $500 million worldwide and is projected to reach $551 million by Sunday. Focusing on the creation of the atomic bomb, the film becomes the highest-grossing World War II picture, outpacing 'Dunkirk' and 'Saving Private Ryan.'

FAQs

What milestone did 'Barbie' achieve and how does it compare to other films directed by women?
'Barbie' crossed $1 billion globally and became the first solo-directed live-action film by a woman to join the billion-dollar club, outperforming 'Wonder Woman' and 'Captain Marvel.'

Which movies are vying for second place at the box office, and how much did 'TMNT' earn?
'Oppenheimer,' 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,' and 'Meg 2: The Trench' are in a tight race for No. 2, with 'TMNT' predicted to earn $30 million after making $9.3 million on Friday.