The Martian has turned out to be director Ridley Scott’s most critically lauded film in years, and now it looks to become one of his biggest commercial successes as well. Taking a look at the figures over at Box Office Mojo, the film grossed an impressive $55 million in its opening weekend domestically, as well as $45.2 million overseas, bringing its total worldwide gross so far to $100.2 million.
The film, based on the Andy Weir novel of the same name, stars Matt Damon as astronaut Mark Watney, who is left behind on Mars by his crew after a storm disrupts their mission. Alone on the desolate planet, Watney must fight for his survival. The film’s financial success has naturally drawn comparisons to another sci-fi epic that similarly ignited the October box office with its extra-terrestrial drama: Alfonso Cuaron’s Gravity.
During the weekend, it was looking as if Gravity might be toppled off its podium for the biggest opening weekend in October. But alas, it was not to be. Despite taking an early lead with a slightly better opening day, The Martian failed to seize the crown, but only just, falling short of Gravity’s $55.785 million. Still, second place isn’t bad, and there is still a chance the film could go on to exceed Gravity’soverall gross, especially if it ends up being a big contender at the Academy Awards.
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