A24’s ‘The Death of Robin Hood’ Struggles at the Box Office

Hugh Jackman’s latest film, ‘The Death of Robin Hood’, has had a lackluster debut at the US box office. The R-rated action drama is projected to earn approximately $2.5 million to $2.6 million during its opening weekend from 1,762 theaters nationwide.

Released by A24 on June 19 after its premiere at the Sydney Film Festival on June 12, the film, despite featuring one of Hollywood’s biggest stars and generating significant interest from moviegoers, failed to make a substantial impact during its first weekend.

Directed by Michael Sarnoski, known for ‘Pig’ and ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’, ‘The Death of Robin Hood’ explores the final chapter of Robin Hood’s life. Alongside Jackman, the cast features Jodie Comer, Noah Jupe, Murray Bartlett, and Bill Skarsgård.

The film premiered during a competitive weekend, contending with several high-profile releases, including ‘Toy Story 5’ and Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’. According to Deadline’s projections, ‘The Death of Robin Hood’ is likely to finish outside the top five, potentially landing at number nine on the domestic box office chart.

The opening weekend figures are particularly disappointing when compared to other recent Hugh Jackman films. Industry experts suggest it could mark the actor’s lowest opening for a wide release since ‘Reminiscence’ in 2021, which earned just $1.9 million during its debut, though that film was released during the pandemic and was available for streaming simultaneously.

Audience feedback does not seem to be aiding the film’s performance. CinemaScore indicates that moviegoers rated ‘The Death of Robin Hood’ a C+, a score generally viewed as weak for a major theatrical release.

Critics have offered mixed reviews as well. On Rotten Tomatoes, 69 percent of 95 reviews are positive, with an average rating of 6.3 out of 10. The site’s critics consensus states: “Swapping out derring-do for ultraviolence, this grim take on the merry legend of Robin Hood could use some more levity in its quiver, but its aim of exploring the complicated humanity behind a folk hero nails the target.”

Metacritic has also reported a mixed response from critics, giving the film a score of 60 out of 100 based on 33 reviews, indicating what it describes as “mixed or average” reviews.

Financially, the film faces significant challenges. Reports suggest that the production budget was around $20 million, and industry estimates indicate it may need to gross roughly $45 million worldwide to become profitable in theaters.

A24 reportedly invested about $4 million for US distribution rights, according to industry reports. Even with this lower investment, the weak opening suggests that recovering costs through theatrical ticket sales alone may be challenging.

For now, ‘The Death of Robin Hood’ joins the growing list of star-driven films that have struggled to draw audiences, despite featuring well-known actors and receiving moderate critical reviews.

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