The fourth film in “The Expendables” franchise launches on Friday, and box-office projections are expected it to hit a franchise low of $15 million in its opening weekend.
The 2010 first film opened at $34.8 million, the 2012 sequel debuted at $28.5 million, and the 2014 third film opened at $15.8 million – the latter likely impacted by a major piracy leak in the time before release.
However, the franchise’s strength is overseas where all three installments have earned at least $200 million globally. “Expend4bles,” which reportedly came in on a production budget of around $100 million, already debuted in China with $10.9 million.
The film has screened for select press this week and whilst reviews aren’t out, social media reaction is. CinemaBlend’s Eric Eisenberg says: “Ever wonder what the rock bottom nadir of a franchise looks like?”. Digital Spy’s Ian Sandwell says it has a “turgid first hour” but also a strong final act. Others have been more favorable, one reaction dubbing it a live-action “Call of Duty: Black Ops”.
50 Cent, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, and Andy Garcia join this entry of the franchise alongside returnees Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren and Randy Couture.
In the film, the team are drawn into a conspiracy that aims to ignite a nuclear conflict between Russia and the United States. Scott Waugh directs from a script by Spenser Cohen and Max Adams.
Source: Variety
