Weapons’ Box Office Tracking Numbers: Julia Garner’s Horror Hit Storms the Charts

Weapons’ box office tracking numbers are turning heads as Julia Garner’s latest horror thriller, directed by Zach Cregger, delivers a chilling debut.

With a gripping tale of missing children and a small-town mystery, the film has already grossed $29.7 million worldwide in its opening days, according to Box Office Mojo.

Starring Garner alongside Josh Brolin and Alden Ehrenreich, this R-rated horror flick is proving to be a breakout hit in a crowded summer market.

Let’s dive into the numbers, explore what’s driving its success, and predict how high this creepy gem might climb by the end of its theatrical run.

Highlights

• Opening Weekend Haul: Weapons earned $18.2 million domestically and $11.5 million internationally, totaling $29.7 million worldwide.

• Critical Acclaim: The film boasts a 96% Rotten Tomatoes score and an A- CinemaScore, signaling strong audience and critic approval.

• Budget Efficiency: With a $38 million production budget, Weapons is poised for profitability with its early performance.

• Demographic Appeal: 65% male audience, with 72% aged 35+, showing broad draw across horror fans.

How Did Weapons Perform in Its Opening Weekend?

Weapons hit theaters on August 8, 2025, and immediately made waves, pulling in $18.2 million domestically (61.3% of its total) and $11.5 million internationally (38.7%).

This $29.7 million global debut outpaced expectations, with some projections estimating a $40 million-plus domestic weekend.

The film’s Thursday previews alone raked in $6 million, a strong indicator of buzz fueled by its eerie trailers and critical praise. Compared to other horror hits like Longlegs (180% of its opening day) and 28 Years Later (125%), Weapons is carving out a unique spot in the genre.

The film’s ability to secure IMAX and premium screens gave it an edge, boosting ticket prices and drawing horror enthusiasts.

Its opening day performance of $18.2 million domestically suggests a robust start, especially for a film with a modest $38 million budget.

This efficiency sets it up for a potentially lucrative run.

What’s Driving Weapons’ Box Office Success?

Several factors are propelling Weapons to the top of the box office charts.

First, Zach Cregger’s reputation as a horror auteur, following his 2022 hit Barbarian ($45 million worldwide), has drawn genre fans eager for his next twisty tale. The film’s 96% Rotten Tomatoes score and A- CinemaScore reflect universal praise, with critics lauding its innovative structure and Garner’s raw performance as a teacher caught in a nightmare.

The star-studded cast, including Garner, Brolin, and Ehrenreich, adds commercial firepower.

Garner, fresh off her MCU debut as Silver Surfer in Fantastic Four: First Steps, brings a versatile appeal that spans mainstream and indie audiences. The film’s marketing, including a viral fake news site for the fictional town of Maybrook, has also amplified hype, with the first trailer garnering over 19 million YouTube views.

Weapons’ timing as counter-programming against family-friendly films like Freakier Friday and superhero blockbusters like Superman helps it stand out. Its R-rated horror edge appeals to adults seeking a darker cinematic experience, and its lack of direct genre competition until The Conjuring: Last Rites in September gives it room to breathe.

What Are the Projected Box Office Totals for Weapons?

Based on current trends, Weapons is on track for a strong theatrical run. Box office projections estimate a domestic opening weekend of $34 million to $41 million, with some analysts suggesting it could hit $45 million if walk-up business remains strong.

Total domestic projections range from $72 million to $130 million, with the high end reflecting its potential as a word-of-mouth sleeper hit.

Internationally, the film’s $11.5 million through Friday suggests a global cume of $65 million to $75 million for the opening weekend.

If it maintains momentum, Weapons could mirror the performance of Barbarian, which grossed $45 million worldwide on a smaller budget.

A conservative estimate places its worldwide total at $100 million to $150 million by the end of its run, while a breakout scenario could push it toward $200 million, especially if positive buzz continues.

The film’s $38 million budget ensures profitability even at the lower end of projections. Strong audience reception (65% male, 72% over 35) and minimal horror competition in the coming weeks bolster its chances for sustained performance.

Will Weapons Outshine Its Competitors?

Weapons is currently outperforming expectations, edging out Freakier Friday ($30.5 million projected domestic opening) and surpassing The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which dropped 53% in its third weekend to $18.3 million.

The horror film’s unique narrative, blending psychological dread with graphic violence, sets it apart in a market dominated by sequels and franchises. Its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score (based on 51 reviews) and critical comparisons to Longlegs and Smile suggest it could become a genre standout.

The lack of major horror releases in the next month gives Weapons a clear runway to attract repeat viewings and latecomers. However, its R-rating may limit some audiences compared to PG-rated competitors like Freakier Friday, which targets families and younger viewers.

Why Is Julia Garner’s Performance a Game-Changer?

Julia Garner’s role as Justine Gandy, a teacher grappling with suspicion and despair, is earning rave reviews for its emotional depth. Critics praise her ability to convey paranoia and resilience, marking her as a horror standout after her MCU role.

Her performance, combined with Brolin’s intense portrayal of a grieving father, elevates the film’s emotional stakes, making it more than just a scare-fest.

Garner’s rising star power, boosted by her recent Fantastic Four role, is drawing diverse audiences. Her ability to shift from cosmic superhero to haunted teacher showcases her versatility, making Weapons a must-see for fans of her work.

Can Weapons Sustain Its Momentum?

Weapons is off to a roaring start, with its $29.7 million global debut and stellar reviews setting a high bar.

Its modest budget, strong word-of-mouth, and lack of direct competition position it for a potentially massive run, with estimates suggesting $100 million to $200 million worldwide.

Some Closing Thoughts:

As horror fans flock to theaters and Garner’s star continues to rise, this chilling thriller could cement itself as one of 2025’s biggest surprises.

Keep an eye on this one, it’s got the makings of a modern horror classic.