The latest film adaptation of the graphic novel “The Crow” is struggling financially in theaters. Directed by Rupert Sanders and starring Bill Skarsgård, the $50 million production has grossed only $18.5 million worldwide over its first two weeks.
This performance fails to meet initial projections of $6-9 million for its opening weekend. Domestic earnings placed it in eighth place and far below the original 1994 film starring Brandon Lee. That version debuted with $11.7 million, equivalent to $35.5 million today, on its way to $94 million globally.
Since then, returns for “The Crow” have dropped sharply. The film averaged just $59 per theater in its second week, suggesting difficulties surpassing even the franchise’s previous lowest earnings. That came from 1996’s “City of Angels,” which made $25.3 million total.
Critical reviews for the remake have been mostly negative at 23% on Rotten Tomatoes. However, audience scores remain relatively positive at 64%. This gap implies dedicated fans may still enjoy the film on streaming.
Lionsgate reportedly paid only $10 million for distribution rights, much less than the budget. With reduced financial risk, the studio could explore alternative models like video on demand.
Whether the film finds new life through streaming or continues losing money theatrically will determine if the franchise goes dormant. Producers had discussed sequel potential, but the remake’s performance may end those plans. As reviews lag and box office numbers decline, the future of “The Crow” is in serious doubt.
