Movie theater earnings in the United States and Canada have plummeted to their lowest level in nearly thirty years, excluding the pandemic period. October’s total box office revenue reached just $425 million, marking the poorest performance for the month since 1997.
Industry analysts point to multiple factors behind the dramatic downturn. The month saw a notable shortage of major studio releases, with only one large-scale effects film—Tron: Ares—reaching theaters. The picture managed $67 million domestically but fell short of expectations with a global total of $133 million against its substantial production budget.
Several anticipated awards contenders also underperformed, including high-profile projects featuring major stars. These films failed to generate the audience interest typically seen during the fall prestige season.
The traditionally lucrative Halloween period provided no relief. With the holiday falling on a Friday night—typically a prime moviegoing time—theater attendance actually dropped to its lowest weekend level of the year. The weekend spanning October 31 through November 2 generated only $48.3 million in total revenue.
Horror offerings proved particularly disappointing, with the season’s most prominent scary movie collecting just $8 million over the Halloween frame. Another widely released horror title struggled even more significantly, earning less than $800,000 despite playing in over 1,700 locations.
Sports competition also played a role, as the conclusion of baseball’s championship series captured viewer attention during the final weekend of the month.
One industry expert summarized the situation plainly: “This month’s major releases simply didn’t connect with audiences. The horror selection especially failed to deliver the seasonal boost that should be automatic for October.”
The month did contain one bright spot, as a concert film from a major music superstar generated exceptional business during its limited theatrical engagement, earning $34 million in just three days.
