20th Century Fox’s film “The Dog Stars” had a disappointing opening weekend at the box office, grossing only $19.3 million in the United States. The movie, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Jacob Elordi, was estimated to have cost $80 million to produce. It received negative reviews for its slow pace, cliché genre elements, and peculiar ending.
This underwhelming performance adds to Ridley Scott’s recent streak of unsuccessful films, including “Napoleon” and “Gladiator 2.” “The Dog Stars” joins a list of box office flops in 2026, such as “Supergirl,” “The Bride,” and “Moana.” Despite these setbacks, the film industry has seen success with releases like “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey,” indicating a potentially strong year for movies.
2026 has seen a shift towards original films over sequels and franchises, leading to increased box office revenue in the U.S. and Canada. Unique movies like “Backrooms,” “Obsession,” and “Project Hail Mary” have contributed to this growth. The domestic box office revenue in the U.S. has risen by 15% compared to last year, with positive trends also observed in the Canadian market.
The film “The Dog Stars,” while not part of a franchise, failed to resonate with audiences seeking innovative storytelling. In contrast, successful films in 2026 have pushed boundaries and sparked discussions with their content. The industry’s focus on fresh narratives and unique approaches appears to be driving box office success this year.