Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Surpasses Dune: Part 2 with $194 Million Opening Debut

It’s official: Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire has exceeded all predictions, storming into theaters over the weekend with unprecedented success. Not only did the highly anticipated film outperform expectations domestically, but it also clinched the title of this year’s highest-grossing opening, surpassing even Dune: Part 2.

Variety reports that Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire raked in an impressive $194 million during its three-day debut, surpassing the $178 million global opening of Dune: Part 2. Fans and industry insiders alike are buzzing with excitement over this monumental achievement.

The film’s global success was particularly evident, with a staggering $110 million earned across 64 markets worldwide. Notably, China emerged as one of the strongest supporters of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, contributing $44 million to its market gross, closely followed by Mexico and India.

Godzilla x Kong (Credits: Toho and Warner Bros)

Mary Parent, a producer on the film, expressed her delight at the overwhelming response, stating, “We wanted to deliver something that was highly entertaining to audiences… So, seeing this result globally feels really good and exciting.”

The remarkable performance of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire has far surpassed initial projections. Originally anticipated to gross a maximum of $50 million in the U.S. during its opening, the film exceeded expectations with a domestic box office return of $80 million.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Surpasses Dune: Part 2 with $194 Million Opening Debut
Godzilla x Kong (Credits: Toho and Warner Bros)

This impressive box office haul has propelled the MonsterVerse past the $2 billion mark, underscoring the enduring power of kaiju on the big screen.

For those yet to experience the epic showdown, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is now showing in theaters. Additionally, fans can catch up on previous MonsterVerse films on Max, while Apple TV+ is streaming the franchise’s inaugural live-action drama, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.