The fashion world is bracing for a return to the halls of Runway magazine, and early indicators suggest the box office is preparing for a massive payday.
Nearly two decades after the original film became a cultural touchstone, 20th Century Studios is set to launch The Devil Wears Prada 2, a sequel that industry analysts expect to dominate the early summer box office. With projections landing between $73 million and $80 million domestically, the film is pacing toward a staggering $180 million global opening weekend, potentially positioning it as the season’s first undisputed blockbuster.
The enthusiasm among audiences appears to be outstripping recent major hits, Deadline reports. Advance ticket sales in North America have already hit $20 million, a figure that edges out the opening trajectories for both Dune: Part Two and Project Hail Mary.
This demand is particularly striking given the film’s wide release across 4,150 theaters, which will dedicate roughly 1,000 screens to premium large-format presentations like Dolby and ScreenX. Previews are scheduled to begin this Thursday afternoon, offering the first real look at how this highly anticipated sequel plays to audiences.
Read more about this topic: “The Devil Wears Prada 2” premiere marked by a vibrant red carpet (with videos)
Director David Frankel has reunited the core creative team, with Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci reprising their iconic roles. The marketing machine behind the film has leaned heavily into the original’s fashion-forward DNA, securing partnerships with high-end brands like Dior and L’Oreal, alongside a promotional push featuring a new single from Lady Gaga and Doechii.
The strategy is clearly aimed at both the nostalgic fanbase of the original 2006 film and a younger demographic eager for the sharp-witted drama that defined the first installment.
While female-led comedies often see heavy spikes in opening weekend attendance, the studio is banking on the film’s longevity in theaters. By capturing the end of the spring season and moving into the Mother’s Day holiday, The Devil Wears Prada 2 is positioned to remain a consistent draw throughout May.
International markets are also looking strong, with the film’s overseas launch coinciding with the Labor Day holiday in Latin America and several European countries, likely giving the global debut an early, significant boost.
