20th Century Fox’s post-apocalyptic film “The Dog Stars” had a disappointing opening weekend at the box office, earning only $19.3 million in the US. Despite being directed by Ridley Scott and starring Jacob Elordi, the movie fell short of expectations after costing an estimated $80 million to produce.
Based on Peter Heller’s novel, the film depicts a group surviving a post-apocalyptic America. Critics criticized its slow pace, cliché genre elements, and a peculiar ending, contributing to its lackluster performance. This marks another box office miss for Ridley Scott, following disappointments with his recent films.
In a year filled with both hits and misses, “The Dog Stars” joins a list of underperforming movies, including “Supergirl,” “The Bride,” and “Moana.” However, successful releases like “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “Toy Story 5” have helped boost 2026 as a potentially strong year for the film industry.
Unlike previous years dominated by sequels, 2026 has seen a rise in original standalone films resonating with audiences. Movies like “Backrooms,” “Obsession,” and “Project Hail Mary” have contributed to the industry’s growth. Box office revenue in the US has increased by 15% compared to the previous year, with promising results also seen in the English-language Canadian market.
Despite the industry’s overall growth, films like “The Dog Stars” highlight a shift in audience preferences towards more innovative and unconventional storytelling. As 2026 progresses, success stories have emerged from films that challenge traditional norms, indicating a changing landscape in cinema consumption.