Not to be lost in the conversation; Michael Mann’s “Ferarri” biopic ($2.8 million) and George Clooney’s “The Boys in the Boat” ($5.7 million) also opened on Christmas, with Illumination’s “Migration” and A24’s “The Iron Claw” in the mix as well. Even with a $100 million budget, “The Color Purple” is looking like a wise investment in the early going.
Then again, maybe it’s not so surprising. After all, the film was based on both the novel and its Broadway musical adaptation, the former of which was previously adapted for the screen by Steven Spielberg (who also produced the “Color Purple” movie musical). Spielberg’s non-musical adaptation was a huge hit in 1985, grossing $94 million domestically against a $15 million budget. This new version further boasts an impressive ensemble that includes Taraji P. Henson (“Hidden Figures”), Danielle Brooks (“Peacemaker”), Colman Domingo (“Fear the Walking Dead”), Corey Hawkins (“In the Heights”), H.E.R. (“Judas and the Black Messiah”), Halle Bailey (“The Little Mermaid”), Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”), and Fantasia Barrino in her major motion picture debut.
Warner Bros. is certainly doing its part to help keep movie theaters afloat during an uncertain period, with three films playing in theaters right now. Amazingly, it’s the musicals and not the big superhero movie starring Jason Momoa that are overperforming. Musicals are a tough prospect in modern times (“La La Land” is more the exception than the rule). Spielberg’s “West Side Story” ($76 million box office/$100 million budget) and “Cyrano” ($6 million box office/$30 million budget) are more likely outcomes.
Be that as it may, Warner Bros. currently finds itself on the right side of the equation here. If this one can go the distance and also rack up some Oscar nominations, it could become the unexpected savior of the winter movie season. Amazingly enough, it’s musicals to the rescue.
“The Color Purple” is currently playing in theaters.