“Avatar: Fire And Ash” ignites box office with $86M-$90M opening weekend projections, dominating the frame while “The Housemaid” and faith favorite “David” battle for No. 2 at $20M-$24M each. James Cameron’s volcanic epic proves Pandora’s power remains unmatched as holiday audiences flock to theaters.
Avatar: Fire And Ash Scorches $86M-$90M Opening
Friday estimates hit $32M domestic for James Cameron’s third Avatar chapter, tracking $86M-$90M 3-day with $28M previews. IMAX alone accounts for 45% ($39M), while 4DX and PLF formats sell out nationwide. Global launch adds $185M from 60 markets.
Jake Sully’s volcanic war draws multigenerational crowds, surpassing Way of Water’s $134M debut through word-of-mouth and holiday timing. China contributes $65M opening, Korea $18M.
Housemaid & David Fight For $20M-$24M No. 2
Sydney Sweeney/Amanda Seyfried thriller “The Housemaid” tracks $22M-$24M from $8M Friday, riding TikTok buzz and date-night appeal. Angel Studios’ animated “David” counters with $20M-$22M family draw, strong church group sales pushing Christian audiences.
Housemaid leads women 25-44 ($15M+), David dominates under-18s and faith demos. Close race decided by Saturday family matinees.
Holdovers Benefit From Christmas Week
Zootopia 2 drops 28% to $18M (4th week, $1.18B domestic), Moana 2 holds $12M (6th, $650M+). Wicked surges 15% to $9M holiday bump. Mufasa fades to $6M (9th week).
Total marketplace: $210M+ weekend, strongest December since Avatar (2009).
Global: Avatar Crushes $275M Worldwide
Fire And Ash launches $185M international from 60 markets, pacing Way of Water’s $305M debut. China ($65M), Korea ($18M), France ($12M) lead. Cumulative: $275M global opening.
Housemaid eyes $35M overseas, David strong faith markets ($18M intl).
Box Office Crystal Ball
Avatar locks $2B+ global run—holiday legs infinite. Housemaid surprises with $120M domestic if buzz sustains. David hits $80M+ faith ceiling. Zootopia 2 cruises $1.5B domestic.
Cameron’s volcano visuals demand IMAX—worth premium ticket. Housemaid perfect date night thriller. David’s animation impresses secular families too. 2025’s hottest weekend proves audiences crave spectacle AND story.
