“Song Sung Blue,” a promising Oscar contender featuring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, has made its debut at the North American box office. The film, centered on the Milwaukee tribute act Lightning & Thunder, opened in theaters on Christmas Day.
Box Office Performance
The movie, written and directed by Craig Brewer, earned $12 million over the four-day Christmas weekend. This puts it at eighth place among box office releases during that period, as reported by Variety. Competing films included:
- 1st: “Avatar: Fire and Ash”
- 2nd: “Zootopia 2”
- 3rd: “Marty Supreme” (starring Timothée Chalamet)
- 4th: “The Housemaid”
- 5th: “Anaconda”
- 6th: “David”
- 7th: “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants”
Despite its position, Focus Features remains optimistic. The film has impressed audiences with an “A” CinemaScore and boasts a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes’ “Popcorn Meter.” Critically, it has garnered a strong 75% approval rating as well.
Financial Considerations
“Song Sung Blue” had a production budget of $30 million. This figure is lower than other holiday releases like “Anaconda” and “Marty Supreme,” making it easier for the film to break even. Notably, 53% of ticket buyers are aged 55 and older. This demographic often takes more time to visit cinemas, which could benefit the film in the long run through positive word of mouth.
Comparative Success
Historically, similar films have shown that initial box office performance can improve. For instance, Jackman’s previous musical film, “The Greatest Showman,” opened with $8.8 million but went on to earn $174 million domestically and nearly $435 million globally.
Film Details and Promotion
“Song Sung Blue” is inspired by a 2008 documentary of the same name and tells the story of Milwaukee musicians Mike and Claire Sardina. The cast includes Michael Imperioli, Jim Belushi, Fisher Stevens, and others who portray the real-life friends and family of the Sardinas.
Milwaukee has embraced the film, featuring an extensive publicity campaign. Highlights included a premiere at the Oriental Theatre and multiple appearances by Jackman in local venues such as Kopp’s Frozen Custard and the Milwaukee High School of the Arts.
Upcoming Events
The film’s celebration continues as Claire Sardina is set to perform at Paulie’s Pub & Eatery on December 30 at 6 p.m. This event will surely attract local supporters and film enthusiasts.
