Amazon MGM's heist thriller 'Crime 101' is heading to streaming platforms earlier than planned after a disappointing box office debut. The film, starring Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo and Barry Keoghan, opened to just $15.1 million over the weekend and is projected to earn $17.7 million through President's Day, against a $90 million production budget.
With positive reviews but a mediocre 'B' CinemaScore from audiences, the film's theatrical run is expected to be short-lived. Industry insiders suggest that the film's high cost and soft opening make a swift transition to streaming the most viable option for Amazon MGM to recoup its investment.
In contrast, 'Wuthering Heights' led the box office with a $40 million four-day holiday weekend, while animated sports adventure 'GOAT' took second place with $32 million. 'Crime 101' landed in third, trailing behind these stronger performers.
The film's early streaming release is seen as a strategic move to capitalise on subscriber interest before word-of-mouth fades. Amazon MGM has not yet announced an official streaming date, but sources indicate it could arrive on Prime Video within weeks.
