Flight Risk, the latest thriller directed by Mel Gibson, has achieved a significant milestone at the box office. Centered on a tense narrative aboard a small aircraft, the film features Mark Wahlberg as a mob hitman disguised as a pilot, tasked with transporting Deputy U. S.Marshal Madolyn Harris (played by Michelle Dockery) and her informant, Winston (Topher Grace)—a target for elimination. The film’s release on January 24 resulted in an impressive opening weekend, grossing $11.6 million and securing the top spot in the domestic box office rankings.
According to a report from Deadline, as of Saturday morning, Flight Risk is projected to earn approximately $5.5 million during its second weekend. This brings its total domestic earnings to around $20.8 million, allowing it to surpass the $20 million mark, although the film now sits at No.5 on the charts following a significant 53% decline from the previous week. This drop raises questions about its ability to recoup its production budget of $25 million.
Implications for Flight Risk
Future Outlook
Despite its challenges, Flight Risk has emerged as one of the standout hits of early 2025. It is notable for being the third new film this year to cross the $20 million threshold in domestic earnings, outperforming Blumhouse’s Wolf Man while ranking just behind Keke Palmer’s comedy One of Them Days and the heist sequel Den of Thieves 2: Pantera. However, the crucial question remains: can the film recuperate its initial investment?
Following its release, One of Them Days opened at No.2 the preceding weekend, now hovering at No.4, above Flight Risk, which occupies the fifth position.
For a film to break even theatrically, it typically needs to gross around two and a half times its budget. This suggests that Flight Risk must achieve approximately $62.5 million to avoid a financial loss. Given its steep drop in audience numbers, especially with a significant over 50% decrease in its second week, reaching this figure appears challenging. Compounding this concern is the film’s unfavorable Rotten Tomatoes rating of merely 26%.
Insights on the Flight Risk Milestone
Beyond Theatrical Success
Despite the potential difficulties in recouping its theatrical revenue, Flight Risk is unlikely to be categorized as a failure. Its impressive debut position may translate into strong home-viewing numbers once it is available through Video on Demand (VOD).The film’s favorable audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, which currently sits at 64%, could also enhance its performance in streaming markets, potentially compensating for a lukewarm reception at the box office.
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Source: Deadline
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