Doctor Strange conjures up big box office returns

Doctor Strange released to US audiences this weekend, getting off to a strong start for Disney and Marvel with an estimated $84.9 million. Impressive considering sizeable competition from Fox and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls (estimated $45.6M) and Lionsgate’s Hacksaw Ridge (estimated $14.75M). Those and the expanded release of A24’s Moonlight made for a top 12 that was up 133.6% over last weekend. Although they didn’t have all that much to contend with – with Inferno being outperformed by Boo! A Madea Halloween.

Doctor Strange represents the 10th largest opening for a Marvel movie, coming in just behind Thor: The Dark World, which is the only other Marvel Cinematic Universe movie to open in November. Of the single-character intros in the MCU, only Iron Man (with $98.6 million – $102.1m including previews – back in Summer 2008) opened larger. Globally, the film has now taken $325.4 million after 13 days.

This is all adding further to Disney’s mega year at the box office.

All data from Box Office Mojo.