This past weekend saw a surge in independent films making their mark at the box office. One standout was Vertical’s Widow Clicquot, which provided audiences with a refreshing alternative to the typical summer blockbuster fare. Starring Haley Bennett as Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin Clicquot, this true story of a young woman breaking societal norms by taking over her wine business after her husband’s passing has resonated well with both critics and audiences alike. With an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Widow Clicquot is proving to be a compelling watch for moviegoers. The film is estimated to have grossed $190k on around 100 screens, making it a solid performer for Vertical.
Another notable success over the weekend was IFC Film’s horror offering, Oddity, directed by Damian McCarthy. This Irish R-rated horror film has managed to scare up an estimated gross of $555.5k at 790 locations, solidifying its position as one of the best-reviewed horror films of the year. With a 97% critic rating and 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, Oddity has captured the attention of horror enthusiasts and is set to climb the ranks as one of the top-rated horror films of 2024.
In addition to the success of established independent films, there was also a breakthrough for Indian cinema with Anand Tiwari’s comedy love triangle, Bad Newz from Moviegoers. The film grossed an impressive $1.07 million on 477 screens, securing the eighth spot at the domestic box office. This achievement highlights the growing diversity and global appeal of independent cinema.
Several limited releases also made their mark over the weekend, showcasing the breadth and depth of independent filmmaking. Films like Crumb Catcher from Doppelganger Releasing, Mubi’s Crossing, and Great Absence from GAGA Corporation all contributed to the diverse lineup of films captivating audiences in theaters.
Among the holdovers, Thelma, distributed by Magnolia Pictures, continued to perform well at the box office. Starring June Squibb, the film crossed the $8 million mark in its fifth week, marking a significant milestone for Magnolia Pictures. With a strong intergenerational appeal and positive word of mouth, Thelma has proven to be a standout success in the indie film landscape.
As independent films continue to make waves at the box office, it is clear that audiences are seeking out unique and compelling storytelling beyond the realm of big-budget blockbusters. With a diverse range of genres and themes on display, independent cinema is thriving and showcasing the artistry and creativity of filmmakers around the world.