Sydney Sweeney’s latest film, Christy, experienced a disappointing box office performance during its opening weekend, generating only $1.3 million across 2,011 cinemas. This resulted in a low per-theater average of $649, marking it as one of the weakest wide theatrical launches in recent history, according to Box Office Mojo.
The film is a biographical drama featuring Sweeney in the role of Christy Martin, a pioneering figure in women’s boxing during the 1990s. Martin made history as the first female boxer to headline a pay-per-view event and later became an advocate for domestic abuse survivors following a violent assault by her former husband and trainer in 2010. Despite an extensive promotional campaign, the film struggled to resonate with audiences.
Mixed Reviews and Competition
“I did a jean ad,” Sweeney explained in a recent GQ interview. “The reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans.”
While the movie received a moderate 66% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it faced stiff competition at the box office, particularly as the holiday season approaches. Critics and audiences alike had mixed reactions, which may have contributed to its lack of traction.
Despite Sweeney’s previous success with the film Anyone But You and her prominent media presence, enthusiasm for Christy remained low. An extensive publicity tour failed to generate excitement, as audience interest appeared to shift to other films. Notably, Sweeney’s recent GQ interview drew significant attention for addressing backlash regarding an American Eagle advertisement that some commentators criticized for its perceived pro-eugenics undertones.
Future Projects and Industry Dynamics
As Christy faces a challenging box office environment, Sweeney is set to return to theaters with The Housemaid, a thriller from Lionsgate, scheduled for release in December. Additionally, she will star in a highly anticipated sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, slated for release in May 2024.
The film industry’s dynamics continue to evolve, with Sweeney’s experiences reflecting broader trends in audience engagement and marketing strategies. As the holiday season approaches, the competition for viewer attention is expected to intensify, and Sweeney’s upcoming projects may provide her with opportunities to regain momentum.
The dismal opening of Christy serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the film industry, where even well-promoted projects can struggle to find an audience.
