The highly anticipated sequel, The Devil Wears Prada 2, has made a striking debut at the global box office, raking in an estimated $233m (£171m) over its opening weekend. This figure establishes it as a significant commercial success, particularly notable for a film primarily appealing to a female demographic during the typically male-dominated summer movie season.
Industry analysts are observing the film's performance closely, as it represents a rare instance of a female-skewing movie leading the North American summer offerings. The original 2006 film, starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, gained a cult following in the UK and beyond, and this sequel appears to have successfully tapped into that enduring popularity, evidenced by its strong international takings.
For Meryl Streep, whose performance in the original as the formidable Miranda Priestly was critically acclaimed, this opening weekend marks a personal best. It is now the highest-grossing opening weekend for any film in which she has starred, underscoring her continued box office draw and the sustained appeal of the franchise.
The film's success comes at a time when the UK cinema industry, like many others globally, is navigating evolving audience habits and the ongoing impact of streaming services. A strong theatrical performance from a major studio release like The Devil Wears Prada 2 offers a positive signal for the sector, potentially encouraging more diverse film productions to consider cinematic releases.