Deadpool & Wolverine once again dominated the North American box office this weekend, raking in an estimated US$15.2 million. This strong performance contributed significantly to August’s domestic ticket sales, which have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, ensuring a robust conclusion to the summer season, according to analysts on Sunday (Sep 1).

The superhero comedy, a collaborative effort from Disney and Marvel, has consistently led domestic ticket sales nearly every weekend since its release six weeks ago. The film’s appeal is bolstered by the star power of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, whose chemistry and camaraderie are major draws for audiences.

Currently, the film’s domestic earnings have reached US$603.8 million, placing it among an elite group of only 16 films to ever exceed the US$600 million milestone. Notably, 11 of these high-grossing films were produced by Walt Disney Studios, as reported by industry expert Exhibitor Relations.

In second place, the sci-fi horror film Alien: Romulus from Disney-owned 20th Century Studios earned a solid US$9.3 million during its third weekend. Set decades after the original Alien film, this latest installment features Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson as space colonists who face a terrifying encounter with deadly xenomorphs.

Sony’s It Ends With Us, a romance drama adapted from Colleen Hoover’s popular novel, secured the third spot with US$7.4 million in ticket sales over the typically quieter US Labor Day weekend. The film stars Blake Lively, who also co-produced the project.

Reagan, a biographical film about America’s 40th president, produced by ShowBiz Direct and MJM Entertainment, garnered US$7.4 million. Analyst David A Gross noted that this is a strong domestic opening for a political biography. Despite lukewarm reviews, audiences responded positively to the film. Based on Paul Kengor’s book The Crusader, the film stars Dennis Quaid and follows Ronald Reagan’s journey from his childhood to his tenure in the Oval Office. The film’s release coincides with the intensifying race for the 47th presidency.

Rounding out the top five is Universal’s Twisters, a follow-up to the popular 1996 film Twister. This sequel brought in an estimated US$7.2 million in ticket sales. Glen Powell stars as a charismatic storm chaser who finds himself intrigued by a mysteriously prophetic rival played by Daisy Edgar-Jones. Together, they navigate a series of astonishing and destructive tornadoes.

This variety of films has not only provided diverse entertainment options but also significantly boosted box office revenues as audiences return to theaters in full force.