Marvel Studios Considers Date Shift for 'Avengers: Doomsday' Amid IMAX Screen Battle
The highly anticipated box office showdown dubbed 'Dunesday,' pitting Marvel Studios' 'Avengers: Doomsday' against 'Dune: Part Three,' may be averted as new reports indicate Marvel is contemplating a strategic release date change. This move is not primarily to avoid a direct clash but to secure crucial access to premium IMAX screens during a congested December period.
'Avengers: Doomsday' May Advance to December 11
According to multiple industry sources, Marvel is in active discussions to shift the release of 'Avengers: Doomsday' forward by one week, from its current December 18 slot to December 11. This adjustment comes in response to 'Dune: Part Three' securing IMAX screens well in advance, with commitments locked in as early as June 2024. Since 'Avengers: Doomsday' was scheduled for the same date a year later, it faced the prospect of having no IMAX availability at all.
'Dune: Part Three' Secures IMAX Screens for Extended Run
'Dune: Part Three,' which was also filmed using IMAX technology, has reportedly booked all available IMAX screens in the United States for a three-week period commencing December 18. With this exclusive deal in place, 'Avengers: Doomsday' would likely be deprived of access to a significant number of premium screens for nearly a month, potentially impacting its box office performance.
Why December 11 Presents an Ideal Opportunity
The December 11 date has become available following 'Jumanji 3' vacating that slot for a December 25 release. This opening allows 'Avengers: Doomsday' to not only secure IMAX screens but also enjoy a solo release window, enabling it to maximize earnings before facing any major competition. Despite the potential clash, industry tracking suggests 'Doomsday' is on pace to achieve a USD 1 billion box office collection.
Historical Precedent: IMAX's Role in 'Avengers: Endgame' Success
The importance of IMAX screens is underscored by the record-breaking performance of 'Avengers: Endgame' in 2019. IMAX contributed significantly, generating USD 91.5 million during its opening weekend alone. A one-week solo run proved sufficient for 'Endgame' to become the fastest film in history to reach USD 1 billion globally, achieving this milestone in just five days. It ultimately amassed a lifetime collection of USD 2.79 billion.
Bollywood Entry 'King' Also Set for December Release
Meanwhile, the Bollywood film 'King,' starring Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Abhishek Bachchan, is also slated for a December release. Currently scheduled for December 25, it adds to the competitive landscape of the holiday season box office.
