We knew Avengers: Infinity War would be a huge success at the box office. The question was always could it top the mighty Star Wars, which also happens to be owned by Disney.
Well, after Thursday's previews and Friday's numbers, industry estimates (via Deadline) have Avengers: Infinity War earning around $237 million over three days. This would make it the second-best domestic opening ever behind only Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which opened to $247.9 million. However, as Deadline notes, some believe Infinity War could actually top The Force Awakens - although that would depend on today's (Saturday) momentum.
"Disney is being cautious not to call records reporting a $225M-$235M range, but rivals see Infinity War‘s start at the high end," Deadline says. We should have a better idea of Infinity War's potential today.
Positive word of mouth is definitely on Infinity War's side as Screen Engine/ComScore's PostTrak are reporting a 83% definite recommend, which actually tops Captain America: Civil War's buzz (75%).
Avengers: Infinity War's opening day is estimated to be at $104 million (including the $39M Thursday night), which makes it the third-best ever opening behind Star Wars: The Force Awakens ($119.1M) and The Last Jedi ($104.7M). Even on the low end of estimates, Infinity War should easily pass The Last Jedi ($220M opening weekend) to give it the second-biggest opening weekend movie ever.
With the success of Black Panther ($683.6M domestically) earlier this year coupled with Infinity War's early dominance, Disney has already passed the $1 billion domestic box office mark, making it the fastest studio to cross that threshold ever.