The Expendables 4 Vs Saw X Earning, Ratings, Box Office
The latest installment in the Expendables series, “Expendables 4” (or “Expend4bles”), directed by Scott Waugh, hit theaters on September 22. Unfortunately, it has faced challenges drawing audiences, evident in its performance at the global box office. Over the past 10 days since its release, the movie has struggled to make a significant impact.
The Expendables franchise began its explosive journey in 2010, with sequels in 2012 and 2014. However, after nearly a decade, “Expendables 4” has failed to continue its own legacy. Even before its release, it received a dismal Rotten Tomatoes score, which now stands at a meager 12%.
Adding to its woes, “Expendables 4” managed to garner just $2.5 million in its second weekend at the domestic box office, bringing its total domestic collection to $13 million. This figure falls significantly short of the opening collection of “Expendables 3.” While overseas territories contributed $23 million, with China accounting for nearly $20 million, the cumulative worldwide collection stands at a disappointing $36 million.
This dismal performance contrasts sharply with the franchise’s earlier successes. The first Expendables film was a resounding hit, grossing over $100 million domestically and an astonishing $260 million worldwide. The sequels, while not reaching the heights of the first, still achieved commendable earnings, with the second crossing the $300 million mark and the third surpassing $200 million worldwide.
“Expendables 4” now faces an uphill battle to attract audiences and, crucially, to turn a profit. It must overcome its underwhelming box office run and Rotten Tomatoes score if it hopes to rekindle the franchise’s former glory. It’s a stark contrast to its predecessors and the impressive box office records set by other recent releases like “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.”
On the other side of the cinematic spectrum, “Saw X” has breathed new life into the horror franchise. Marked by the return of Tobin Bell’s iconic Jigsaw character, this installment takes place between the events of the first two movies, earning it the moniker “Saw 1.5.”
“Saw X” made a promising start, grossing $18 million from 3,262 locations in North America over its opening weekend. Given its reported production cost of $13 million, this is a positive sign. The film also pulled in $11.3 million internationally, resulting in a global total of $29.3 million. While horror films often have short box office lifespans, “Saw X” has garnered positive word-of-mouth. Critical acclaim, reflected in an 85% Rotten Tomatoes score, has contributed to its success.
“Saw X” has reinvigorated the franchise, seamlessly blending character depth with intense horror elements. It pays homage to the original “Saw,” known for defining the horror genre. Critics have praised its ability to add a fresh piece to the Jigsaw puzzle, creating a riveting experience for audiences.
John Kramer, the infamous Jigsaw, returns in his most disturbing game yet. Set between the events of “Saw I” and “Saw II,” the story unfolds as John seeks a risky medical procedure in Mexico for a cure for his cancer, only to discover a sinister scam. Armed with a renewed purpose, he unleashes his signature traps on the con artists in his own gruesome way.