In brief
Tom Cruise’s latest film, ‘Digger’, is projected to lose more than $245 million as ticket sales slumped 60% in its second weekend. Grossing just $35 million globally against a $280 million budget, the movie could become one of the biggest failures in cinema history. Warner Bros estimates a break‑even point of $300–350 million, a target far beyond the film’s current earnings. Meanwhile, the studio’s newest release, ‘The Social Reckoning’, also struggled, reflecting a broader slump in recent genre offerings.
The highly‑anticipated satirical black comedy starring Tom Cruise is now projected to lose a staggering $245 million, according to Hollywood analysts, as its opening weekend was followed by a sharp decline in ticket sales.
‘Digger’ saw its weekly takings drop by about 60% in the second weekend, bringing worldwide gross to roughly $35 million (£26 million). With a production and marketing budget of $280 million (£211 million), the film faces a daunting deficit.
Cruise himself reflected on the poor performance, stating that he “never thought of movies when I’m making them (in terms of) opening weekend,” adding that his focus lies in creating films that will “translate, last and evolve.”
If the current trend continues, it could place ‘Digger’ alongside classics such as *Cutthroat Island*, *Sahara* and *John Carter*—films that each lost upwards of $100 million.
Warner Bros estimates the break‑even point at $300–$350 million, factoring in marketing costs, theater cuts and potential award season spend. The studio’s spokesperson counters with a slightly lower figure of $300 million (£227 million).
Notably, ‘Digger’ was Warner Bros’ final stand‑alone release before its recent takeover by Paramount, signaling a shift in corporate strategy.
Directed by Alejandro G. Inarritu, known for *Birdman*, *Babel* and *The Revenant*, the film’s critics lauded its premise but ultimately delivered a lukewarm reception, prompting Warner to launch a new marketing push urging audiences to “decide for yourself.”
Across the board, other recent releases have struggled: the sequel *The Social Reckoning*—a faux‑Facebook drama directed by Aaron Sorkin—garnered only $9 million worldwide, far below the $22 million opening of its 2010 predecessor.
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