Taylor Swift’s concert film, “The Eras Tour” has not only set but smashed records, raking in an estimated $95 million to $97 million in the US and Canadian box office over the weekend. This staggering success, reported by AMC Theatres, surpasses the previous record held by Justin Bieber’s “Never Say Never,” which collected $29.5 million in its first three days back in 2011.
Taylor’s movie, released just six weeks after its announcement, has become a cultural phenomenon, setting a new benchmark for concert films. It’s a unique achievement, considering it wasn’t part of the initial planning calendar, marking a significant boost for theater operators like AMC and Cineworld.
The concert film’s success lies not only in Taylor’s star power but also in the film’s pop and electronic production. The film’s sonic landscape, masterfully produced by Taylor, takes audiences on a journey through her globe-spanning stadium show. The incorporation of nature audio samples adds depth and authenticity to the cinematic experience.
Despite minimal promotion outside of Taylor’s social media, “The Eras Tour” turned into a major box office draw, collecting an impressive $31 million to $33 million internationally. This global success places its initial tally between $126 million to $130 million, solidifying Swift’s status as a box office queen.
An unconventional release strategy, with screenings limited to Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, hasn’t deterred fans. Taylor’s numerically loaded ticket prices, coupled with the film’s unique cinematic experience, have contributed to its unprecedented success. Taylor’s decision to encourage audience engagement, allowing singing, dancing, and even taking videos inside theaters, has resonated well, earning the film an “A+” CinemaScore.
Taylor’s self-production of the film, in collaboration with AMC Theatres, positions her to earn a substantial share of ticket sales. While the film’s profits are noteworthy, they pale in comparison to the billions expected from the actual tour, projected as the most lucrative concert in American history.
Taylor’s “The Eras Tour” continues its remarkable run, as it not only revitalises the fall box office but also prompts other studios to adjust their release schedules. This unexpected cultural phenomenon is proving to be a major win for Taylor, theater operators, and fans alike, highlighting the enduring influence of Taylor Swift in both the music and cinematic experience.
Long live the new box office queen.
