Box Office Success for 'Weapons' and 'Freakier Friday'
#box_office #disney #action-comedy #sequels #sydney_sweeney #bob_odenkirk
Box Office Success for 'Weapons' and 'Freakier Friday'
The Hollywood Reporter recently announced that Disney's 'Freakier Friday' and 'Weapons' have dominated the box office, with the latter taking the top spot and grossing $25 million in its opening weekend. Meanwhile, 'Freakier Friday' has surpassed the $9.3 million domestic opening of Bob Odenkirk's 'Nobody 2' with a second-weekend haul of $14.5 million.
Sydney Sweeney's 'Americana' Makes a Splash
In addition to the success of 'Weapons' and 'Freakier Friday', Sydney Sweeney's 'Americana' also made waves with a $500K bomb drop. The highly anticipated film, which follows the journey of a young girl growing up in rural America, has received critical acclaim and has been praised for Sweeney's captivating performance.
The Rising Popularity of Action-Comedy Sequels
The success of 'Weapons' and 'Freakier Friday' also sheds light on the growing popularity of action-comedy sequels in the film industry. With audiences craving for more high-octane action and comedic relief, studios are banking on successful franchises and sequels to satisfy their demands.
About the People Mentioned
Bob Odenkirk
Bob Odenkirk, born October 22, 1962, is an American actor, comedian, writer, producer, and director known for his versatile career in television and film. He began his career as a comedy writer in the late 1980s, contributing to *Saturday Night Live* (1987–1991), where he won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in 1989. He created the iconic character Matt Foley, famously portrayed by Chris Farley. Odenkirk also wrote for *The Ben Stiller Show*, winning another Emmy in 1993, as well as for *Late Night with Conan O'Brien* and other comedy programs[1][3][5][7]. In the mid-1990s, Odenkirk co-created and starred with David Cross in the cult classic HBO sketch comedy series *Mr. Show with Bob and David* (1995–1998), which was revived as *W/ Bob & David* on Netflix in 2015. He has also produced and contributed to shows like *Tom Goes to the Mayor* and *Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!*[1][3][7][8]. Odenkirk gained widespread acclaim for his dramatic role as Saul Goodman/Jimmy McGill on AMC's *Breaking Bad* (2009–2013) and its spin-off *Better Call Saul* (2015–2022). His portrayal earned him six Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. He also appeared in other television roles, including Bill Oswalt in *Fargo* (2014) and received a nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for *The Bear* (2024)[1][3][8]. In film, Odenkirk expanded his range with roles in *Nebraska* and the action thriller *Nobody* (2021), which debuted at number one at the U.S. box office. He is currently filming *Nobody 2* and the suspense-action film *Normal*, both scripted by Derek Kolstad, creator of *John Wick*. Odenkirk is also returning to the stage in David Mamet’s *Glengarry Glen Ross*, reflecting his ongoing engagement with live theater[2]. He has earned two Primetime Emmy Awards from 18 nominations, three Critics' Choice Television Awards, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and multiple Golden Globe nominations, marking him as a significant figure in comedy and drama alike[1].
Sydney Sweeney
Sydney Bernice Sweeney (born September 12, 1997, in Spokane, Washington) is an American actress and producer known for her versatile roles in television and film. She began her acting career with guest appearances on shows like *Pretty Little Liars* and *Criminal Minds*, but gained initial recognition in 2018 with her role as Emaline Addario in the Netflix series *Everything Sucks!* and as Eden Spencer in Hulu’s *The Handmaid’s Tale*. Sweeney's breakthrough came with the HBO drama series *Euphoria* (2019–present), where she portrays Cassie Howard, a complex teenager navigating toxic relationships and personal challenges. This role earned her widespread acclaim and a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2022 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. She is confirmed to have filmed for *Euphoria*’s highly anticipated third season. In 2021, she starred as Olivia Mossbacher in HBO’s anthology series *The White Lotus*, a satirical drama set at a luxury Hawaiian resort. Her performance garnered another Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. In film, Sweeney appeared in Quentin Tarantino’s *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood* (2019). More recently, she had leading roles in *Reality* and *Anyone but You* (both 2023). In 2024, she starred as Julia Cornwall in the superhero film *Madame Web* and appeared in the horror film *Immaculate*. Sweeney moved to Los Angeles at age 13 to pursue acting and has been noted for her determination, including self-recording an audition tape for *Euphoria* despite initial discouragement. She continues to build a diverse career in both television and film, earning recognition for her nuanced performances and choice of challenging roles[1][2][5][6].
About the Organizations Mentioned
Hollywood Reporter
The Hollywood Reporter (THR) is a leading American entertainment media brand established in 1930 by William R. "Billy" Wilkerson as Hollywood’s first daily trade newspaper. Initially a daily publication, THR was designed to serve the entertainment industry with news, analysis, and gossip, quickly becoming influential in shaping Hollywood careers and industry trends. Wilkerson's use of incisive articles and gossip helped the paper gain notoriety despite opposition from major studios[1][5]. Over the decades, THR evolved from a daily newspaper into a weekly large-format print magazine, complemented by a dynamic and revamped website since 2010. It offers in-depth reporting, thought-provoking reviews, and exclusive features covering film, television, and digital media, targeting both Hollywood insiders and a global audience interested in entertainment business and technology[1][3][7]. Key historical moments include the paper's growth under Wilkerson, who also played a significant role in Hollywood nightlife and real estate, and the transition of leadership to his wife, Tichi Wilkerson Kassel, after his death in 1962. The publication's headquarters in Hollywood, expanded architecturally in 1936, became a landmark symbolizing its longstanding presence in the industry[1][2][6]. Today, The Hollywood Reporter is recognized for its authoritative coverage, featuring world-class photography, video content, and extensive social reach with millions of followers and unique monthly views. Under current leadership, including Editor-in-Chief Maer Roshan and EVP Lori O’Connor, THR sustains its influence through a combination of traditional journalism and digital innovation, making it a vital resource for business and technology professionals tracking entertainment industry dynamics[3]. Notably, THR's blend of historic legacy and modern multimedia presence positions it uniquely as both a chronicler and shaper of entertainment culture, business, and technology trends worldwide.
Disney
The Walt Disney Company is a renowned American multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate headquartered in Burbank, California. Founded on October 16, 1923, by Walt and Roy Disney as the **Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio**, it has evolved into a global leader in entertainment, technology, and innovation. ## History and Achievements Disney's rise to fame began with the introduction of **Mickey Mouse** in the 1928 short film *Steamboat Willie*, marking the first post-produced sound cartoon. Over the years, the company diversified into live-action films, television, and theme parks. The **Disney Renaissance** period from 1989 to 1999, led by CEO Michael Eisner, revitalized the company's animation sector. Notable acquisitions include **Pixar** (2006), **Marvel Entertainment** (2009), **Lucasfilm** (2012), and **21st Century Fox** (2019), further solidifying Disney's position as a major entertainment conglomerate. ## Current Status Today, Disney is a powerhouse in the media and entertainment industry, with a significant presence in film production, television networks, theme parks, and streaming services like **Disney+**. The company's revenue has consistently grown, with a notable increase to $91.36 billion in 2024, driven largely by its media and entertainment segment[5]. Despite leadership changes, including the reinstatement of Bob Iger as CEO in 2022, Disney continues to innovate and expand its offerings. ## Notable Aspects - **Innovation and Technology**: Disney has been at the forefront of technological advancements, integrating innovative storytelling with cutting-edge technology in its films and theme parks. - **Global Reach**: With operations spanning across the globe, Disney's brand is recognized and celebrated worldwide. - **Corporate Social Responsibility**: Disney emphasizes social responsibility through environmental protection and community engagement initiatives[1]. - **Future Projects**: Upcoming projects, such as *Moana 2* in