Melissa McCarthy broke out as a star in “Bridesmaids” in 2011. That was seven years ago. Since then she’s starred in plenty of movies, including a wonderful dramatic turn in “St.Vincent” with Billy Murray.
After a lot of successes, this weekend she really got hit big time. “Happytime Murders” is the lowest opening weekend she’s ever had– just $10 million. Ripped by reviewers, “Happytime” is made by Brian Henson, son of the “Muppets” creator Jim Henson. It’s an almost X rated version of Muppets, with puppets who look like them doing and saying raunchy things.
No one–really no one– wanted to see this– let alone the people from “Sesame Street” who’ve complained strenuously. The Muppets are sacrosanct. It makes you wonder how much Brian Henson hated his father, or hates him now. Why do this?
At least there will be no sequel. McCarthy, who’s smart, will bounce back. Henson, I don’t know. Again, what was the purpose? I’m sure “Happytime” is funny, like fart jokes and whoopie cushions. But at $40 million, it may not seem so funny when it loses $20 million.
“Crazy Rich Asians” had a great weekend, finished first, made another $25 million, is now at $76 million. Two sequels are coming, and then undoubtedly a TV series. “Mission Impossible: Fallout” is up to $538 million internationally, worldwide, US included. The last one, “Rogue Nation,” made $682 million all in.
