Fire and Ash’s Box Office Streak

Sony’s newest horror release could end one of the box office’s most consistent runs. As Avatar: Fire and Ash enters its fifth weekend, early projections hint that a fresh sequel might take over the top spot.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’s box office opening could beat Avatar 3

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple aims to earn $20–22 million domestically over the four-day Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. Meanwhile, Avatar: Fire and Ash targets $12–14 million during the same period. If these projections prove accurate, The Bone Temple will surpass Avatar 3 and end its four-week run at the top of the box office.

Avatar: Fire and Ash has grossed $1.23 billion globally but is showing signs of decline. The first two Avatar films maintained the No. 1 spot for seven straight weekends, while the third entry may fall short after five. Variety notes that Hollywood’s expectations for Avatar 3 remain high due to its predecessors’ box office totals of $2.9 billion and $2.3 billion.

Directed by Nia DaCosta and written by Alex Garland, The Bone Temple continues the story of the Rage Virus. The film stars Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and Alfie Williams. It has a production budget of $63 million. The sequel follows the events of 28 Years Later, which opened with $30 million and earned $150 million worldwide. The new film benefits from limited competition and strong reviews.

The film holds a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score, the highest in the franchise. Critics have praised DaCosta’s direction and highlighted the performances of Ralph Fiennes and Jack O’Connell. Reviews describe the film as a strong entry in the series, with standout character portrayals and effective storytelling.

The plot follows antagonist Jimmy Crystal, who leads a group known as the Jimmys, and Dr. Kelson, who searches for a cure. Cillian Murphy returns briefly as Jim, setting up the trilogy’s conclusion.

Sony has confirmed a third installment following early reception to The Bone Temple.