Audiences turned out in force to see Matt Damon in Jason Bourne, pushing the spy sequel to a sterling $60 million debut.
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In 2012, when it seemed unlikely that the duo would ever come back, Universal attempted a “Bourne” spinoff starring Jeremy Renner, but that movie was unsuccessful, opening to $38 million and ultimately grossed a modest $113 million. That’s good news for Universal, which ran the risk of losing a Tiffany franchise without Damon’s involvement.
In fifth place, the micro-budget thriller “Lights Out” took in $10.8 million.
Jason Bourne was the big victor its first week, smashing both the competition and records. Next weekend, “Jason Bourne” opens in Argentina, Egypt, India and Slovenia, with a China debut looming at the end of August. But given all we hear about the breakneck rate of technological advancement, it’s notable how little the gadgetry in these tech-centric films has changed in two decades.
Jason Bourne, which sees Matt Damon return to the lead role, is the fifth instalment of the franchise.
Overseas takings were equally hefty, with $50.1 million amassed from over 46 markets, storming its way into the number one spot in 27 of those territories.
Bourne was back dodging Central Intelligence Agency agents in The Bourne Ultimatum as he searched for answers about his life as an assassin. The movie was not as well received and ended up making about $150 million less than “The Bourne Ultimatum” globally.
“Jason Bourne” dominated the box office this past weekend, brining in about $61 million in theaters across the US and Canada. The film’s five-day gross hovers above $15 million as it, too, receives an A- grade on CinemaScore.
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Paul Greengrass, who helmed the second and third films in the franchise, returns as director, and he still demonstrates an impressive command of staging cat-and-mouse dalliances on a global stage. That brings the animated film’s worldwide total to a hefty $395.2 million with several major territories, including China, left to open.
