"Clayface" is taking the early lead at the North American box office this weekend, but its closest competition comes from an unexpected source: a documentary about Elizabeth Holmes. With horror, fantasy, and action sharing the spotlight, the October 23-25 movie lineup offers several contenders for audiences deciding what to watch. Early estimates favor DC's latest release, although the weekend's final rankings remain unsettled.
Leading the charge is "Clayface," DC's R-rated venture into body horror. Deadline's latest report estimates a $9.5 million Friday, including previews, and an opening weekend of $23 million-$25 million. That puts the film in position to claim first place, bringing a darker comic-book attraction to theaters just ahead of Halloween.
The potential spoiler is "You Can See Everything," A24's Elizabeth Holmes documentary. Its expansion from 855 to 2,655 theaters gives it a substantially larger audience to pursue after its successful debut. The Numbers' Friday forecast projects approximately $22.2 million for its second weekend, placing the documentary within striking distance of "Clayface." A nonfiction film challenging a DC release makes this weekend's contest particularly unusual.
For moviegoers seeking a fantasy adventure, Laika's "Wildwood" enters the race with a projected $11.5 million opening. The stop-motion film follows a girl into an enchanted forest after crows abduct her baby brother. Its arrival broadens the weekend's choices while setting up another close contest further down the chart.
"Street Fighter," last weekend's winner, is forecast to collect approximately $11 million in its second weekend, narrowly behind "Wildwood." Meanwhile, Olivia Colman's fantasy comedy "Wicker," about a woman who commissions a husband made from wicker, is projected to open with approximately $5.5 million. Together, the films give audiences options ranging from video-game action to an unconventional romantic fantasy.
The biggest question is whether "Clayface" can maintain its advantage as the weekend continues. These figures are preliminary estimates and forecasts, with the final results still to come.
