After more than a decade away from cinemas, Scary Movie has returned in a big way, delivering one of the year’s biggest opening weekends and proving there’s still a strong appetite for parody comedy on the big screen.
The latest instalment of the long running franchise debuted with an impressive US$55 (approx $78,233,905.20 AUD) million across North America, comfortably taking the top spot at the weekend box office (per Hollywood Reporter)
International audiences also turned out in force, contributing another US$50.5 (approx $71,859,025.50) million and pushing the film’s worldwide launch to US$105.5 (approx $150,088,203.50) million.
The sixth entry in the series reunites fan favourites Anna Faris and Regina Hall while also marking the return of the Wayans brothers to the franchise they helped create. Directed by Michael Tiddes, the R-rated comedy once again pokes fun at horror films, pop culture and current events, with younger moviegoers driving much of the turnout, interestingly more than 60 per cent of ticket buyers were under 30.
Scary Movie 2026 (Final trailer)
Masters of the Universe
Opening in second place was Masters of the Universe, which earned US$29.3 (approx $41,646,228.90 AUD) million domestically and US$54 (approx 76,729,626.00 AUD) million globally. The Amazon MGM and Mattel Films adaptation stars Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam, who must return to Eternia and embrace his destiny as He-Man to stop Skeletor, played by Jared Leto.
The fantasy adventure attracted a largely male audience and found its strongest support among viewers aged 45 to 54, reflecting the enduring popularity of the original 1980s animated series.
Masters of the Universe 2026 (trailer)
Horror
Horror continued to dominate the charts, with A24’s Backrooms claiming third place on US$25.9 (approx $36,805,195.00 AUD) million, the viral sensation has now become A24’s highest grossing film ever, reaching a worldwide total of US$212 ($301,268,960.00 AUD) million after just two weekends in cinemas.
Backrooms (trailer)
Close behind was Focus Features’ sleeper hit Obsession, which added US$25.6 (approx 36,381,696.00 AUD) million during the frame. The horror thriller has shown remarkable staying power, dipping only 7 per cent from the previous weekend.
Its domestic total now stands at US$152 ($215,998,067.84 AUD) million, with the film on track to surpass US$200 (approx $284,207,984.00 AUD) million worldwide, the movie has already secured its place as Focus Features’ highest grossing release of all time.
Obsession (trailer)
Elsewhere
Further down the chart, The Amazing Digital Circus: The Last Act debuted with US$19.5 (approx $27,709,890.00 AUD) million, while The Mandalorian and Grogu and Michael continued adding to their already substantial box office totals.
With comedy, horror and nostalgia all connecting with audiences, the summer box office continues to deliver surprises.
Check out the full chart here.
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