‘F9’ on course for pandemic-best $68m North American opening weekend

Universal’s F9 is heading for a pandemic-high estimated $68m three-day North American opening weekend after a $7.1m start in Thursday night previews (June 24).

The latest entry in the $6bn Fast & Furious franchise was projected to earn $30m on Friday from 4,179 North American venues. US sites account for a greater share than usual as cinemas across large parts of Canada remain closed.

The tentpole is approaching $300m from international markets and roared into the UK on Thursday with a record pandemic weekday launch of £1.2m ($1.67m) already.

Justin Lin directs Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, John Cena, Charlize Theron, Tyrese Gibson, Jordana Brewster, and Ludacris, with Kurt Russell.

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