"Dune: Part Two" has made a significant impact at the box office, securing an $81.5 million domestic debut and providing a much-needed boost for movie theaters. The film's opening weekend is not only the largest of the year but also the biggest since last October's Taylor Swift concert film "The Eras Tour," which earned $93 million. Fueled by positive reviews and strong word-of-mouth, "Dune 2" surpassed expectations, with Warner Bros. initially projecting a $65 million start.

Internationally, the sequel added $97 million, resulting in a substantial global tally of $178 million. The film's success has been attributed to its connection with audiences and the appeal of its human and vulnerable characters. The positive reception has also translated into a longer play, with the movie resonating in culture beyond its initial release.

"Dune: Part Two" has been especially popular in premium large formats (PLFs) and Imax, contributing significantly to its domestic box office total. The film's impressive opening is expected to justify its return to theaters and its substantial production and promotional costs.

The success of "Dune: Part Two" has narrowed the gap in domestic box office revenues, which were previously 20% behind the same period in 2023. With this strong performance, the gap has reduced to 13.5%, according to Comscore. The film's achievements have led to optimism in the industry, signaling a positive turn for movie theaters.

This box office success follows the European Union's fine of €1.84 billion (approximately $2 billion) imposed on Apple for antitrust violations in the music streaming market.